MXPA02005805A - Mechanical fastening system having a plurality of engagement members which include stalk members. - Google Patents

Abstract

An article (10), has a first article portion (12), a second article portion (14), and a fastener (36). The fastener secures the first article portion to the second article portion and includes at least one first fastener component (70), which is attached to the first portion of the article. A cooperating, second fastener component (72) is mechanically interengageable with the first fastener component (70) and is attached to the second portion of the article (14). The first fastener component (70) includes a plurality of engagement members (56) having a first quantity of engageable stalk members (94).

Description

MECHANICAL CLAMPING SYSTEM THAT HAS A PLURALITY OF HITCH MEMBERS INCLUDING STEM MEMBERS Field of the Invention 5 The present invention relates to fastening systems for garments and other articles. More particularly, the present invention relates to interlocking mechanical type fastening systems which can be employed with disposable articles such as gowns, diapers, incontinence garments and the like.

Background of the Invention Conventional disposable absorbent articles have typically employed adhesive fastening tapes to secure the article to a wearer. Such items have also been constructed with interenganchantes mechanical fasteners, such as resorbe closures, buckles, and 20 hook and loop fasteners. The particular articles have included a fastening system which has been extended along essentially the entire length of an ear section of the article. Other fastening systems have included strips or segmented adhesion sections which have been 25 arranged to extend along a portion of the length of the ear section of the article. In yet other systems, segmented strips or sections have been composed of components selected mechanical fasteners, such as the individual sections of the hook material or the curl material. Additionally, combinations of adhesive fasteners and mechanical fasteners have been employed.

Conventional mechanical fasteners are comprised of hook-and-loop type fasteners, and various fasteners of hook-type materials have been employed, such as hooks of generally mushroom and T-shaped and inverted J-shape. Such conventional fastening systems have also employed tapered fastening appendages wherein the grip area on the ends of the wearer is relatively wide in its inward region adjacent to the longitudinally extending sides of the diaper, and tapered to a narrower width at its most remote far end. Still other fastener appendages have incorporated bell-shaped fastening areas wherein the fastening area on the appendage portion for the user is shaped to be relatively narrow in an inward region adjacent to the longitudinally extending sides of the diaper, and to be wider at its most remote far end.

Conventional fasteners and fastening systems, such as those described above, have not provided adequate levels of reliable fastening and ease of fastening release. Conventional clamping systems have not provided sufficient capacity i * .U, *? Í? ± 1 to accommodate the stresses imposed on the article by a user, while also providing a desired ease of release of the fastener after the item has been used. When constructed and arranged to generate the desired levels of reliable assurance, conventional fasteners have been excessively difficult to release from the fastener for inspection or removal of the used article. The difficulty can be made especially evident with the mechanical fasteners after the fasteners have been used for an extended period of time. As a result of this, conventional fastening systems have not provided the desired combinations of comfort, ease of fastening, strong fastening and ease of fastening release.

Brief Description of the Invention Generally speaking, the present invention provides a distinctive article, having a longitudinal direction in the direction of the length, and a lateral direction in the lateral direction. The article has the first part of article, a second part of article, and at least one fastener for securing the first part of article to said second part of article. The fastener includes at least a first fastener component attached to the first part of the article, and a second cooperative fastener component. The second fastener component is mechanically engagable with the first fastener component, and is attached to the second part of the article. In a particular aspect, the first fastener component may include a plurality of engaging members having a first quality of engagable stem members.

In another aspect, the engaging members may include a first amount of fastening members that have engagable head elements. In additional aspects, the first fastener component may include a first engageable section and a second engageable section. The first engaging section may include a first plurality of engaging members having a first number of engagable stem members, and a second engaging section and may include a second plurality of engaging members having a second amount of stem members. hooked The incorporation of the various aspects of the fastening system of the invention can provide an improved securement with greater resistance to premature openings, and can also provide improved notch, improved comfort and reduced irritation to the wearer's skin. The distinctively shaped fasteners of the invention can advantageously provide a combination of improved properties, such as an improved combination of a relatively high shear force engagement and an engagement of relatively low peel strength. The various aspects of the invention can provide a fastening system that has greater reliability and improved assurance without generating excessive irritation, and can provide an improved fastener release facility for inspection and removal of the article.

Brief Description of the Drawings The present invention will be more fully understood and the additional advantages will become more apparent when reference is made to the following detailed description of the invention and the drawings in which: Figure 1 representatively shows a top view partly in section of an inward side of a diaper article which incorporates the fastening system of the invention; Figure 2 representatively shows a top plan view of an outward side of a diaper article which incorporates the fastening system of the invention; Figure 3 representatively shows a longitudinal and schematic cross-sectional view of the article illustrated in Figure 1; Figure 4 representatively shows a side view of a non-isotropic T-shaped fastening member which can be employed with the present invention; Fig. 4A representatively shows a top view of a fastening member of Fig. 4; Figure 5 representatively shows a side view of a symmetrical and essentially isotropic hook-shaped fastening member which can be employed with the present invention; Fig. 5A representatively shows a top view of the fastening element on the fastening member of Fig. 5; Figure 6 representatively shows a side view of a hooking stem member which can be employed with the present invention; Figure 6A representatively shows a top view of a hitch stem member of Figure 6; Figure 7 representatively shows a top view of another hooking stem member which can be employed with the present invention; Figure 7A representatively shows a top view of a hitch stem member of Figure 7; Fig. 8 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a combination of hooking stem members and fastening members with nail head fastening elements; Figure 8A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 8; Fig. 9 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a first latching section laterally inward with an array of fastening members and a second latching section laterally outwardly with an array of stem members; Figure 9A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 9; Figure 10 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a first latching section, laterally interior with a arrangement of stem members, and a second laterally engaging section with an arrangement of fastening members; Fig. 10A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Fig. 10; Figure 11 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a first latching section laterally inward with a combination of fastening members and stem members, and a second latching laterally exterior section with the fastening members. stem; Figure HA representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of figure 11; Fig. 12 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a first laterally inwardly engaging section with the stem members, and a second laterally laterally engaging section with a second combination of holding members and stem members; iijiC. TO. .-Á - u 'í? Figure 12A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 12; Fig. 13 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a first laterally inwardly engaging section with fastening members, and a second laterally laterally engaging section with a combination of fastening members and stem members; Figure 13A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 13; Fig. 14 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a first laterally inwardly engaging section with a combination of fastening members and stem members, and a secondly laterally engaging section with the fastening members; Figure 14A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 14; »I. ^ Tüt iaA.

Figure 15 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a first laterally inwardly engaging section with relatively shorter stem members, and a second laterally laterally engaging section with the relatively higher clamping members; Figure 15A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 15; Fig. 16 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a first laterally inwardly engaging section with relatively shorter fastening members, and a laterally outer engaging section with relatively higher stem members; Figure 16A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 16; Figure 17 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a first laterally inwardly engaging section with a first concentration of selective heights and stem members, and a second engaging section laterally outer with a second concentration of clamping members and stem members with different heights; Figure 17A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 17; Fig. 18 representatively shows a top schematic view of a fastener having a first laterally inwardly engaging section with a first combination composed of a first amount of fastening members and a first amount of stem members, and a second section laterally engaging the outside with a second combination composed of a second amount of holding members and a second amount of stem members; Figure 18A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 18; Fig. 19 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a discrete spacer distance between a first laterally inwardly engaging section with a first combination of holding members and talus members, and a second ÍJ *? * I¿? ¿¿¿M ¿. «,«. ** > . ¿¿Laterally outer coupling section with a second combination of clamping members and stem members; Figure 19A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 19; Figure 20 representatively shows a top and schematic sample of a fastener having three latching sections, with each latching section having a corresponding combination and a distribution arrangement of fastening members and stem members, and with each section of hitch taking a strip configuration.

Figure 20A representatively shows an expanded cross-sectional and schematic view of the fastener of Figure 20; Fig. 21 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a first laterally inwardly engaging section having a first combination of stem members and non-symmetric J-shaped fastening members arranged in a first pattern of alignment, and a second laterally engaging section with a second combination of stem members and J-shaped fastening members arranged in a second alignment pattern; *?,,,,,,, 1 1 1,, 1 1.

Figure 21A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 21; Fig. 22 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a first laterally inwardly engaging section having a first combination of stem members and isotropic and barb type fastening members arranged in a first pattern of alignment, and a second laterally engaging section with a second combination of stem members and barb-type fastening members arranged in a second alignment pattern; Figure 22A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 22; Figure 23 representatively shows a schematic top plan view of a fastener having a first hook section having a distribution of fastener members, and a second hook section generally of a crescent shape having a member distribution of stem; Figure 23A representatively shows a schematic and expanded cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 23.

Detailed description of the invention The various aspects and embodiments of the invention will be described in the context of a disposable absorbent article such as a disposable diaper. It will, however, be readily apparent that the present invention can be employed with other articles, such as caps, suits, shoe covers, women's care items, children's underpants, incontinence garments and the like. Typically, disposable articles are intended for limited use and are not intended to be washed or otherwise cleaned to be reused. A disposable diaper, for example, is discarded after it has been soiled by the wearer.

It should also be noted that, when used in the present description, the terms "comprise", "comprising", and other derivatives of the term "comprises" are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of any characteristics. declared, elements, integers, steps or components, but no1 precludes the presence or addition of one or more characteristics, elements, integers, steps, components or groups thereof !.

With reference to Figures 1, 2 and 3, an article, such as the diaper shown representatively 10, has a longitudinal direction in the direction of the length 26, a transverse direction in the lateral direction 24, and a midline extending longitudinally 40. The article includes a first part 12, such as a first waistband part, and a second part of article 14, such as a second waistband part, and at least one fastener, such as that provided by a fastener appendage 36. The fastener secures the first part of article to the second part of the article and includes at least a first fastener component 70, such as a hook component which is fastened to the first part of the article. At least a second cooperating fastener component 72, such as a curl component, is mechanically interengagable with the first fastener component 70 and is attached to the second part of the article. In a particular aspect, the first fastener component 70 may include a plurality of engaging members 56 having a first amount of engagable stem members 94 (eg, Figure 8).

In other aspects of the invention, the plurality of engaging members 56 may also include a first primary amount of fastening members 93, each of which has a corresponding fastening head element. 60.

In a further aspect, the first fastener component 70 may include a first latch section 52 having a first plurality of latch members with a first number of stem members 94 and at least a second latch section 54 having thus minus a second plurality of engaging members with a second number of stem members.

In the desired arrangements, the second number of stem members differs from the first number of stem members. In more particular arrangements, the second number of stem members may be greater than the first number of stem members.

In still other aspects, the first plurality of the engaging members 56 may include the first quantity of engagable stem members 94 combined with a first amount of the fastening members 93. The second plurality of the engaging members may include the second amount of the hooked stem members combined with a second amount of fastening members. In the desired configurations, the fastening members may include the fastener elements.

In other configurations of the invention, the first fastener component 70 may include the sections of Í?, * Áj *. < ~ í *? *** .- *.

Additional hitch with additional distributions of the hitch members. Each of the latching sections can provide a different distribution of the latching members having a different combination of the stem members and the fastening members.

Additionally, each of the latching sections can provide different and selected latching forces. For example, the second latching section 54 can provide a different latching force, in comparison, to the first latching section 52. In particular arrangements, the second latching section can provide a greater or smaller stripping force value than the latching force. of the first hook section. In other arrangements, the second engaging section can provide a cutting force value greater or less than that of said first engaging section.

In various configurations of the invention, the fastening members in the first engaging section 52 can be essentially the same, or different from the fastening members of the second engaging section 54. In addition, a fastener transition region 76 can be located between the laterally adjacent regions of the first and second engaging sections 52 and 54. The first engaging section 52 can be placed laterally inward from the second engaging section 54 and relatively closer to the midline of the article 40. So, the second section latch 54 can be positioned relatively outside the first latch section 52 and located relatively further from the median line. Optionally, the first designated latching section 52 can be positioned laterally outside the second engaging section designated 54.

In other aspects, the article of the invention may have a first fastener component 70 which includes at least a third latching section 96 (eg, figures 20 and 20A). The second engaging section may have a third plurality of engaging members which include a third amount of stem members. Additionally, the third engagement section may have a third amount of fastening members.

As shown representatively, the fastener system can provide the at least one first fastener component 70 in a configuration which is operatively connected and fastened to the side section 86 of a first waistband portion 12 of the article, and can provide the second component fastener and cooperator 72 in a configuration which is operatively connected and fastened to a designated section of the second waistband portion 14 of the article. Desirably, at least a first fastener component 70 is fastened to at least one lateral side section 86 of the first waistband part 12. Optionally, the at least one fastening component 70 can be attached to at least one lateral side section 88 of the second waistband part 14, and the second fastener and engaging component 72 can be fastened to a designated section of the first waistband part 12. In the desired configurations, less a first fastener component 70 is attached to each of the two laterally opposite side sections of the selected waistband portion.

The distinctive aspects of the present invention (individually and in combination) can advantageously help to better maintain the desired notch around the user. For example, the aspects of the invention may help reduce the sagging and sagging of the crotch region of the garment, and may help reduce the winding of the fall in the waist region. The incorporation of various aspects of the fastening system of the invention can provide an improved securement with a greater resistance to premature openings, and can also help to provide an improved notch, improved comfort and reduced irritation of the wearer's skin. The latching zones configured in a different manner, and / or the fastening members can provide a distinctive combination of high latching areas for greater assurance and reliability, and predetermined areas of a relatively smaller latch for greater ease in releasing the latch. Subjection and removal of the user's article. In particular aspects, the amounts of peel strength and / or cut resistance in selected areas can be controlled to provide the desired combinations of insurance. In other aspects, the remote or outer terminal end of the grasping tab can be more easily found and can be more easily released without employing an essentially uninsured finger lift tab.

The article of the invention can, for example, being a garment provided by the disposable diaper shown representatively with the number 10. In the desired configurations, the first article part may provide a first waistband portion, such as the rear waistband portion 12 shown and the second article portion may providing a second waistband portion such as the front waistband portion shown 14. The article may additionally have an intermediate or crotch portion 16 which interconnects between the first and second waistband portions 12 and 14, respectively. The article may further include a lower sheet layer 30, a liquid permeable upper sheet layer 28 connected and assembled in a front-to-lower sheet layer relationship, and an absorbent structure such as a structure which includes the body absorbent 32. The absorbent structure is sandwiched between the bottom sheet and top sheet layers and is operably held therebetween. An operative fastening system, such as the system shown having fasteners 36, is typically constructed and arranged to interconnect the first apart band of waistband 12 with the second part of ? Oma L-M * ?? a? .-? * m .-- «-í ~ **, .- £ .. **. *** - < ^ a. »,. «Haha» .. ^ - * ».« ^ »» ^ J »» »» Jh? T ^ l ^ - »?« Lfci »« «ttMt - ^« atoia > j ».il.

Waistband 14 to retain the article on a user. The fastening system can be operatively configured to join the first rear waistband part 12 in an overlapping relationship with the second front waistband part 14 in a back-to-front arrangement to thereby surround the wearer's body and retain the secure diaper on the user during use. Optionally, the fastening system can employ fasteners 36 which are configured to attach the front waistband portion 14 in an overlapping relationship with the rear waistband portion 12 in a front-to-back arrangement to secure the diaper. In such optional arrangements, the frontal waistband region can be identified as the first waistband region 12 and the waistband posterior region can be identified as the second waistband portion 14.

The front waistband section 14 of the diaper representatively shown 10 has a pair of lateral and laterally opposite side edge regions 88, and the rear waistband part 12 has a laterally opposite rear pair of side edge regions 86. Intermediate section 16 interconnects the front and back waistband section and providing a diaper crotch region which is typically positioned between the legs of the wearer. The article may also have a designated fastener location zone member 50 which is positioned on the exterior surface of the article. In the configuration shown in Figures 1 and 2, for example, the positioning member 50 is * .i.tá ** £. * t., M¡L * L? .. ^ ... li¡á¿¿íis, arranged on the outer surface of the lower sheet layer 30. The upper sheet layer liquid permeable 28 is superimposed in a face relationship with the lower sheet layer 30, and the absorbent body 32 is operably connected and fixed between the lower sheet layer 30 and the upper sheet layer 28.

Figures 1 and 2 show typical plan views of a representative disposable diaper 10 in its non-contracted and generally planar state (for example, with essentially all elastic-induced collection and contraction removed). In Figure 1, the parts of the structure are partially cut out to show more clearly the interior construction of the diaper article, and the side surface to the body of the diaper that contacts the wearer faces the observer. The outer edges of the diaper define a periphery with the longitudinally extending side edge margins 20 and the laterally extending end edge margins 22. The lateral edges define the leg openings for the diaper, and optionally are curvilinear and contoured . The end edges are shown as straight, but optionally they can be curvilinear.

With respect to the designated surfaces of the article, the various surfaces side to inner body are configured to face the body of the - tto mu- ^ ja * r-s- "'-' - - user when the article is placed around the user.The designated outer surfaces of the article are configured to be facing away from the user's body when the article is placed around the user.

With reference to figures 1, 2 and 3, diaper 10 can aesthetically include a liquid-permeable and porous upper sheet 28; a lower sheet essentially impermeable to liquid 30, an absorbent body structure 32 positioned and connected between the upper sheet and the lower sheet; an emergence management part 46 located on one side of the absorbent structure; and a system of elastomeric reclining members, such as a system that includes the leg elastics 34 and the waist elastics 42. The emergence management part is placed in liquid communication with a designated retaining or storage portion of the absorbent structure, and the top sheet 28, the bottom sheet 30, the absorbent structure 32, the emergence management part 46 and the elastic members 34 and 42 can be assembled together in a variety of well-known diaper configurations. The diaper may additionally include a fin containment system 62, and a region of ear region or side panel members 38, which may be elasticized or otherwise made elastomeric.

The examples of the articles which include the elasticized side panels and the fastening appendages Selectively configured are described in the patent application of the United States of America series No. 168,615 of T. Roessler and another, entitled DYNAMIC ENTALLE DIAPER, and filed on December 6, 1993 (attorney's case No. 10,961) which corresponds to the document of the Patent Cooperation Treaty WO 95/16425 published on June 22, 1995. Various techniques for the formation of the desired fastening systems are described in United States of America Patent No. 5,399,219 issued to T. Roessler et al., Entitled METHOD FOR MAKING A CLAMPING SYSTEM FOR A DYNAMIC ENTALLE DIAPER, which was granted on March 21, 1995 (attorney's case No. 11,186); in U.S. Patent No. 5,540,796 entitled "A PROCESS FOR ASSEMBLING ELASTICED EARS" by D. Fries, which was granted on July 30, 1996 (attorney's case No. 11,169); and U.S. Patent No. 5,595,618, entitled A ASSEMBLY PROCESS FOR A LAMINATED TAPE of D. Fries, which was granted on January 21, 1997 (attorney's case No. 11,950). The descriptions of the documents described above are incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent (not in conflict) with the present.

The diaper 10 generally defines the longitudinally extending extension direction 26 of the laterally extending width direction 24, as representatively shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The diaper can have any desired shape, such as rectangular, in the shape of I, a generally hourglass shape, or a T-shape. With the T-shape, the transverse bar of the letter T may compromise the front waist portion of the diaper, or may alternatively comprise the rear waistband portion of the diaper.

The topsheet 28 and the bottomsheet 30 may be generally coextensive and may have length and width dimensions which are generally larger and extend beyond the corresponding dimensions of the absorbent structure 32 to provide the corresponding side margins 20 and the end margins 22. Optionally, the top sheet and bottom sheet layers may not be coextensive. The upper sheet 28 is operatively associated and superimposed on the lower sheet 30, thereby defining the periphery of the diaper. The waistband regions comprise those parts of the diaper, which when worn, cover or completely or partially surround the waist or lower middle torso of the wearer. The intermediate crotch region 16 lies between and interconnects the waistband regions 14 and 12, and comprises that portion of the diaper, which when worn, is placed between the legs of the wearer and covers the lower torso of the wearer. Thus, the intermediate crotch region 16 is an area in which repetitive fluid surges typically occur in the diaper or other disposable absorbent article.

The lower sheet 30 can typically be located at a length of a surface on the outer side of the absorbent body 32 and may be composed of a liquid-permeable material, but desirably comprises a material which is configured to be essentially impermeable to liquids. For example, a typical bottom sheet may be made of a thin plastic film or other material essentially liquid impermeable and flexible. As used in the present description, the term "flexible" refers to materials which are docile and which will readily conform to the general shape and contours of the user's body. The lower sheet 30 prevents the exudates contained in the absorbent body 32 from wetting the articles, such as the bed sheets and the overbeds, which make contact with the diaper 10. In the particular embodiments of the invention, the lower sheet 30 can include a film, such as a polyethylene film that has a thickness of from about 0.012 millimeters (0.5 mil) to about 0.051 millimeters (2.0 mil). For example, the lower sheet film may have a thickness of about 1.25 mils.

The alternate constructions of the lower sheet may comprise a woven or non-woven fibrous fabric layer which has been partially or fully constructed or treated to impart the desired levels of liquid impermeability to the selected regions that are adjacent to or close to the liquid. absorbent body. For example, the lower sheet may include a non-woven layer permeable to gas laminated to a designated face surface of a layer of polymer film which may or may not be gas permeable. Ordinarily, the fabric layer is fastened to an outward facing surface of the polymer film layer. Other examples of fibrous cloth type bottom sheet materials may comprise a stretched-thermal-laminate or a stretched-thinned material composed of a 0.6 mil polypropylene blown film (0.015 millimeter thick) and a yarn bonded material polypropylene 0.7 oz per square yard (23.8 grams per square meter) (2 denier fibers).

In particular arrangements, a lower vapor permeable sheet layer essentially liquid impermeable may be a composite material which includes a vapor permeable film layer adhesively laminated to a spun bonded layer. The vapor permeable film layer 1 can be obtained from Tredegar Film Products division of Tredegar Industries, Inc., under the name EXAIRE. The film layer can include 48-60 percent by weight (% by weight) of linear low density polyethylene and 38-50% by weight of calcium carbonate particles which can be uniformly dispersed and extruded into the film layer . The film layer can be stretched to have a thickness of about 0.7 thousandths of an inch (about 0.018 millimeters) and a basis weight of 16-22 grams per square meter (g / m2). The spin-bonded layer can be adhesively laminated to the film layer, and it can have a basis weight of about 27 g / m2. The spunbonded layer can be made using a conventional spunbonded technology and can include polypropylene filaments having a fiber denier of 1.5-3 denier per fiber. The vapor permeable film layer can be adhered to the spun bonded layer using a hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive at an aggregate rate of about 1.6 g / m2, and the adhesive can be deposited in the form of a pattern or swirling of adhesive or a spray of random fine fibers.

The lower vapor permeable and liquid impervious sheet layer may alternatively include a stretched thermal laminate with high breathability (HBSTL). The stretched thermal laminate with high breathability may include a material bonded with polypropylene yarn heat-secured to a stretched breathable film. For example, stretched thermal laminate with high breathability may include a material bonded with polypropylene yarn of 0.6 oz per square yard (20.4 g / m2), thermally attached to a breathable and stretched film of 18.7 g / m2. The breathable film includes two layers of skin with each skin layer composed of 1-3% by weight of ethylene vinyl acetate / cataloy. The movie with capacity for a ijfcaj '- * "*» «¿-'- breathe can also include 55-60 / by weight of calcium carbonate particles, linear low density polyethylene and up to 4.8% low density polyethylene. Breathable and stretched can include a thickness of 0.45-0.50 thousandths of an inch (0.011-0.013 millimeters) and a basis weight of 18.7 g / m2.The layer bonded with spinning can be thermally bonded to the breathable film, and can have a basis weight of about 20.4 g / m2.The spunbonded layer can have a denier fiber of 1.5-3 denier per fiber, and the breathable and stretched film can be thermally attached to the material bonded with yarn using a star pattern in C which provides a global bond area of 15-20%.

Various types of such materials have been used to form the bottom sheet or outer cover of the HUGGIES disposable diapers, which are commercially available from Kimberly-Clark Corporation. The lower sheet 30 typically provides the outer cover of the article. Optionally, however, the article may include a separate outer cover component member which is additional to the lower sheet. The lower sheet can also be engraved or otherwise provided with a matte pattern or finish to exhibit a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

As mentioned, the bottom sheet 30 may include a microporous "breathable" material the ..l. "- ^" ^^^ AitJM .jü which allows gases such as water vapor, the escape of the absorbent body 32 while substantially preventing liquid exudates which pass through the bottom sheet . For example, the bottom breathable sheet may be composed of a microporous polymer film or a nonwoven fabric which can be coated or otherwise modified to impart a desired level of liquid impermeability. Another example of a suitable microporous film may be a PMP-1 material which is available from Mitsui Toatsu Chemicals, Inc., a company having offices in Tokyo, Japan; or a polyolefin film XKO-8044 available from 3M Company, of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

In the various configurations of the invention, where a component such as the backsheet 30 or the containment flaps 62 are configured to be permeable to gas while having a resistance and limited permeability to aqueous liquid resistant material liquid it may have a construction which is capable of supporting a selected hydro head of water essentially without a runoff. For example, the desired materials can support a hydro head of at least about 45 centimeters of water, essentially without runoff. A suitable technique to determine the resistance of a material to the penetration of the liquid is the Standard Federal Test Method FTMS 191 Method 5514, of 1978, or an equivalent thereof.

The size of the lower sheet 30 is typically determined by the size of the absorbent body 32 and the particular diaper design selected. The lower sheet 30, for example, may have a generally T-shaped, generally I-shaped or a modified hourglass shape, and may extend beyond the end edges of the absorbent body 32 by a selected distance, such as a distance within the range of about 1.3 centimeters to 2.5 centimeters (about 0.5 to 1 inch) to provide at least part of the lateral and end margins.

The topsheet 28 has a body facing surface which is docile, has a soft, non-irritating feel to the wearer's skin. The topsheet 28 may be less hydrophilic than the absorbent body 32 and is sufficiently porous to be permeable to the liquid, allowing the liquid to easily penetrate through its thickness to reach the absorbent body. A layer of suitable topsheet 28 may be manufactured from a wide selection of tissue, such as porous foams, reticulated foams, apertured plastic films, natural fibers (eg, wood fibers or cotton) material, synthetic fibers (for example, polyester or polypropylene fibers) or a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. The top sheet layer 28 is typically employed to help isolate the user's skin from liquids maintained in the absorbent body 32.

*% • Several fabrics woven and nonwoven can be used for topsheet 28. For example, the topsheet may be composed of a melt blown web or bonded with yarn of desired fibers, and may also be a carded web and united. The various fabrics can be composed of natural fibers, synthetic fibers or combinations thereof.

For the purposes of the present description, the term "non-woven fabric" means a fabric of fibrous material which is formed without the aid of a textile weaving or weaving process. The term "fabric" is used to refer to all woven, knitted and non-woven fibrous fabrics.

The top sheet fabrics may be composed of an essentially hydrophobic material, and the hydrophobic material may optionally be treated with a surfactant or otherwise processed to impart a desired level of wettability and hydrophilicity. In a particular embont of the invention, the topsheet 28 is a spun-bonded and non-woven polypropylene fabric composed of fibers of about 2.8-3.2 denier formed into a fabric having a basis weight of about 22 grams per square meter and a density of 0.06 grams per cubic centimeter. The fabric can be surface treated with an operative amount of surfactant, such as about 0.28% surfactant jj »JÜJ_« .tlM * tf; »lr ..- TRITÓN X-102. The surfactant can be applied by any conventional means, such as spraying, printing, brush coating or the like.

The top sheet 28 and the bottom sheet 30 are connected or otherwise associated together in an operable manner. As used herein, the term "associated" encompasses configurations in which the top sheet 28 is directly attached to the bottom sheet 30 by attaching the top sheet 28 directly to the bottom sheet 30, and the configurations wherein the top sheet 28 it is indirectly attached to the lower sheet 30 by fixing the upper sheet 28 to intermediate members which in turn are fixed to the lower sheet 30. The upper sheet 28 and the lower sheet 30 can, for example, be joined to one another in at least a part of the periphery of the diaper by means of suitable fastening mechanisms (not shown), such as adhesive joints, thermal joints, perforation, sewing or any other fastening technique known in the art, as well as combinations thereof. For example, a continuous and uniform layer of adhesive, a patterned adhesive layer, a pattern of sprayed adhesive or an array of lines, swirls or adhesive construction points can be used to secure the top sheet 28 to the bottom sheet 30. It will be readily appreciated that the fastening mechanisms described above can also be employed to properly interconnect, assemble and / or secure together the various other component parts of the articles which are described herein.

The absorbent body 32 provides an absorbent structure which may include a retaining portion, such as an absorbent pad shown representatively and composed of selected hydrophilic fibers and high absorbency particles, to retain and store the absorbed liquids and other waste materials. The absorbent body is placed and sandwiched between the upper sheet 28 and the lower sheet 30 to form the diaper 10. The absorbent body has a construction which is generally compressible, conformable, non-irritating to the wearer's skin, and able to absorb and retain body exudates. It should be understood that, for the purposes of this invention, the absorbent body structure may comprise a piece of integral and single material, or alternatively, may comprise a plurality of separate and individual pieces of material which are operatively assembled together.

Various types of wettable hydrophilic fibrous material can be used to form the component parts of the absorbent body 32. Examples of suitable fibers include naturally occurring organic fibers composed of an intrinsically wettable material, such as cellulose fibers, synthetic fibers composed of cellulose or cellulose derivatives, such as the fibers of rayon; inorganic fibers composed of an inherently wettable material, such as glass fibers; synthetic fibers made of inherently wettable thermoplastic polymers, such as particular polyester or polyamide fibers; and synthetic fibers composed of a non-wettable thermoplastic polymer, such as polypropylene fibers, which have been hydrophilized by appropriate means. The fibers can be hydrophilized, for example, by treatment with silica, treatment with a material which has a suitable hydrophilic moiety and is not easily removable from the fiber, or by sheathing the hydrophobic fiber not wettable with a hydrophilic polymer during or after fiber formation. For the purposes of the present invention, it is contemplated that mixtures selected from the various types of fibers mentioned above may also be employed.

As used herein, the term "hydrophilic" describes fibers or fiber surfaces which are wetted by aqueous liquids in contact with the fibers. The degree of wetting of the materials can, in turn, be described in terms of contact angles and the surface tensions of the liquids and materials involved. Equipment and techniques suitable for measuring the wetting of particular fiber materials or mixtures of fiber materials can be provided by the Cahn SFA-222 Surface Force Analyzer System or by a system ÍÁJ * ál? -.? - í? »K * ??? L.?.L *. • ... ^ •. ^ ..'..-.... - * ..? ^ * J ^. «.« UAMR., .., - > J ...- ZO * d. JkA? .t. essentially equivalent. When measured with such a system, fibers having contact angles of less than 90 ° are designated as "wettable", while fibers having contact angles greater than 90 ° are designated "non-wetting".

The absorbent body structure 32 may comprise a matrix of hydrophilic fibers, such as a cellulose fluff fabric, mixed with particles of high absorbency material. In particular arrangements, the absorbent body 32 may comprise a mixture of superabsorbent hydrogel forming particles and blown fibers with synthetic polymer melt, or a mixture of superabsorbent particles with a fibrous coform material comprising a mixture of natural fibers and / or synthetic polymer fibers. The superabsorbent particles can be essentially mixed homogeneously with the hydrophilic fibers, or they can be mixed non-uniformly. For example, the concentrations of superabsorbent particles may be arranged in a non-stepped gradient through an essential part of the thickness (z-direction) of the absorbent structure, with lower concentrations towards the body side of the absorbent body and relatively higher concentrations. towards the outer side of the absorbent structure. Suitable z-gradient configurations are described in U.S. Patent No. 4,699,823 issued on 13 zl? & ¿s¿áiií L ^ .MAí.

October 1987 to Kellenberger et al., the complete description of which is incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent (not in conflict) with the present disclosure. Alternatively, the concentrations of superabsorbent particles can be arranged in a gradient in a non-stepwise direction through a substantial part of the thickness (z-direction) of the absorbent structure, with higher concentrations towards the body side of the absorbent body and relatively higher concentrations. low towards the outer side of the absorbent structure. The superabsorbent particles may also be arranged in a discrete layer generally within the matrix of hydrophilic fibers. In addition, two or more different types of superabsorbent can be selectively placed in different places within or along the matrix fiber.

The high-absorbency material may comprise absorbent gelation materials, such as superabsorbents. The absorbent gelation materials can be natural, synthetic and modified natural materials and polymers. In addition, the absorbent gelation materials can be inorganic materials, such as silica gels or organic compounds, such as crosslinked polymers. The term "cross-linked" refers to any means to effectively render the materials normally water-soluble essentially insoluble but swellable in water. Such means may include, for example, physical entanglement, crystalline domains, covalent bonds, complexes and ionic associations, hydrophilic associates, such as hydrogen bonding, and hydrophobic associations or Van der Waals forces.

Examples of the synthetic absorbent gelation material polymers include the alkali metal and ammonium salts of poly (acrylic acid) and poly (methacrylic acid), poly (acrylamides), poly (vinyl ethers), maleic anhydride copolymers with vinyl ethers and alpha-olefins, poly (vinyl pyrrolidone), poly (vinyl morpholinone), poly (vinyl alcohol) and mixtures and copolymers thereof. Additional polymers suitable for use in the absorbent body include natural and modified natural polymers, such as hydrolyzed acrylonitrile grafted starch, acrylic acid grafted starch, methyl cellulose, chitosan, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, and gums natural, such as alginates, xanthan gum, carob bean gum and the like. Mixtures of natural and fully or partially synthetic absorbent polymers may also be useful in the present invention. Other suitable absorbent gelation materials are described by Assarsson et al. In U.S. Patent No. 3,901,236 issued August 26, 1975. Processes for preparing synthetic absorbent gelation polymers are described in the patents of the United States of America. United States of America Nos. 4,076,663 issued on February 28, 1978 to Masuda and others, and 4,286,082 issued on August 25, 1981 to Tsubakimoto and others.

Synthetic absorbent gelation materials are typically xerogels which form hydrogels when wetted. The term "hydrogel" however, has been commonly used to also refer to both the wetted and unmoistened forms of the material.

As previously mentioned, the high absorbency material used in the absorbent body 32 is generally in the form of discrete particles. The particles can be of any desired shape, for example, spiral or semi-spiral, cubic, rod type, polyhedra, etc. Shapes that have a larger dimension and / or smaller size ratio, such as needles, flakes and fibers are also contemplated for use herein. The conglomerates of the absorbent gelation material particles can also be used in the absorbent body 32. It is desired to use the particles having an average size of from about 20 microns to about 1 millimeter. The "particle size" as used herein means the heavy average of the smallest dimension of the individual particles.

Hydrophilic fibers and high-absorbency particles can be configured to form an average composite basis weight which is within the range of about «F? Aim > .? nlnl, MlAa ^ - 400-900 grams per square meter. In certain aspects of the invention, the average composite basis weight is within the range of about 500-800 grams per square meter, and alternatively is within the range of about 550-750 grams per square meter to provide the desired performance.

To improve the containment of high-absorbency material, the absorbent body structure 32 may include an overwrap, such as the wrapping sheet 74, which is placed immediately on one side and around the absorbent body 32 and may be attached to the absorbent structure and the various other components of the article. The wrapping sheet is preferably a layer of absorbent material which covers the surfaces from side to side and from side to main body of the absorbent body, and preferably encloses essentially all of the peripheral edges of the absorbent body to form an essentially complete envelope around it. Alternatively, the wrapping sheet can provide an absorbent wrap which covers the side-to-body and the main outside surfaces of the absorbent body, and essentially encloses only the side-side edges of the absorbent body. Therefore, both inwardly arched and linear portions of the lateral side edges of the wrapping sheet will be enclosed around the absorbent body. In such an arrangement, however, the end edges of the wrapping sheet may not be completely closed around the end edges of the absorbent body of the waistband regions of the article.

For example, the entire wrapping sheet 74, or at least the side-to-body layer of the wrapping sheet, may comprise a meltblown fabric composed of meltblown fibers, such as meltblown polypropylene fibers. Another example of the absorbent wrapper 74 may comprise a low porosity cellulosic fabric, such as a tissue composed of a mixture of approximately 50/50 hardwood / softwood fibers.

The absorbent wrapper 74 may comprise a multi-element wrapping sheet which includes a separate side-by-side wrapping layer and a separate outer-side wrapping layer, each of which extends beyond all or some of the wrapping layers. the peripheral edges of the absorbent body 32. Such a configuration of the wrapping sheet may, for example, facilitate the formation of an essentially complete seal and seal around the peripheral edges of the absorbent body 32. In the posterior waistband portion of the illustrated diaper, The absorbent wrap may also be configured to extend an increased distance outwardly from the periphery of the absorbent body to add opacity and strength to the back side sections of the diaper. In the illustrated embodiment, the layers from side to body and from the side to the outside of the envelope Í * L .JL. tL .. *. * J * t ~ -i ^? jA ^ í * imMu. absorbent 74 may extend at least about around < 3e 1/2 inch beyond the peripheral edges of the absorbent body to provide a flange-type attachment area, projecting outwardly over which the periphery of the body-side portion of the absorbent shell may be completely or partially connected to the periphery of the outer part of the absorbent envelope.

The side-to-body and side-to-side layers of the wrapping sheet 74 may be composed of essentially the same material, or they may be composed of different materials. For example, the side-to-side layer of the wrapping sheet may be composed of a relatively lower basis weight material having a relatively high porosity, such as a wet-strength cellulosic tissue composed of soft wood pulp. The side-to-body layer of the wrapping sheet may comprise one of the previously described wrapping sheet materials which have a relatively low porosity. The low porosity side-to-body layer can better prevent migration of the superabsorbent particles onto the user's skin, and the lower porosity base-to-outer layer can help reduce costs.

The diaper 10 may also include an emergence management layer 46 which helps decelerate and diffuse surges or sprouts of liquid that can be rapidly introduced into the absorbent body of the article. Desirably, the emergence management layer can quickly and temporarily accept to retain the liquid prior to release of the liquid into the holding storage portions of the absorbent structure. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the emergence layer 46 may be located on a side-to-body surface facing inward of the top sheet layer 28. Alternatively, the emergence layer 46 may be located on one side of a web. outer side surface of the topsheet 28. Thus, the emergence layer will then be interposed between the topsheet 28 and the absorbent body 32. Examples of suitable emergence management layers 46 are described in the U.S. Pat. of America No. 5,486,166 entitled CAPACITY OF FIBROUS NON-WOVEN FABRIC EMERGEMENT ABSORBENT ARTICLES FOR PERSONAL AND SIMILAR CARE OF C.

Ellis and D. Bishop, which was granted on January 23, 1996 (attorney's case No. 11,256); and the patent of the States United States No. 5,490,846, entitled FIBROUS NON-WOVEN FABRIC OF IMPROVED EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT FOR ABSORBENT ARTICLES FOR PERSONAL AND SIMILAR CARE, by C. Ellis and R. Everett, which was granted on February 13, 1996 (attorney's matter No. 11,387); the full descriptions of which are incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent therewith.

Ljfaafc? - il l &? Áá ± i * ¿.. rXá. ^ A *. * The elastic leg members 34 are located on the lateral side margins 20 of the diaper 10 and are arranged to pull and retain the diaper 10 against the user's legs. The elastic members are secured to the diaper in an elastically contractible condition such that under a normal tension configuration, the elastic members effectively contract against the diaper 10. The elastic members can be secured in an elastically contractible condition by at least two. For example, the elastic members can be stretched and secured while the diaper 10 is in an uncontracted condition. Alternatively, the diaper 10 can be contracted, for example, by folding and the elastic members can be secured and connected to the diaper 10 while the elastic members are in their relaxed or unstretched condition. Still other mechanisms, such as heat shrinkable elastic material, can be used to pick up the garment.

In a further embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the elastic leg members 34 extend essentially along the entire length of the intermediate crotch region 16 of the diaper 10. Alternatively, the elastic members 34 may extend to the length complete of the diaper 10, or any suitable length to provide the desired elastically contractable lines arrangement for the particular diaper design.

¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡ A The elastic members 34 may have any of a multitude of configurations. For example, the width of the individual elastic members 34 can be varied from about 0.25 millimeters (0.01 inches) to about 25 millimeters (1.0 inches) or more. The elastic members may comprise a single strand of elastic material, or may comprise several parallel or non-parallel strands of elastic material, or may be applied in a rectilinear or curvilinear arrangement. Where the threads are not parallel, two or more of the threads may intersect or otherwise interconnect them within the elastic member. The elastic members can be attached to the diaper in any of several ways which are known in the art. For example, the elastic members can be ultrasonically bonded, sealed with heat and pressure using a variety of bonding patterns, or they can be adhesively bonded to the diaper 10 with spray or swirl patterns of the hot melt adhesive.

In particular embodiments of the invention, the elastic leg members 34 may include a carrier sheet to which is attached a set of elastics comprising a plurality of individual elastic threads. The elastic threads can intersect or be interconnected or be completely separated from each other. The carrier sheet may, for example, comprise a 0.002 centimeter thick polymer film, such as a film of non-etched polypropylene material. Elastic yarns can, for example, be made of LYCRA elastomer, available from DuPont, a business that has offices in Wilmington, Delaware. Each elastic yarn is typically within the range of about 470-1500 decitex (dtx) and can be around 940-1050 decitex. In particular embodiments of the invention, for example, three or four threads may be employed for each elasticized leg band.

In addition, the leg elastics 34 may be generally straight or optionally arched. For example, arched elastics can be arched curved inward toward the longitudinal center line of the diaper. In particular arrangements, the curvature of the elastics may not be configured or placed symmetrically in relation to the lateral center line of the diaper. The arcuate elastics can have a reflex type of arcuate inward curved and outwardly arched, and the center longitudinally of the elastics can optionally be off center by a selected distance to either the front or back diaper waistband to provide the notch and desired appearance. In the particular embodiments of the invention, the innermost point (apex) of the arcuate elastics set may be offset towards the rear or front waistband of the diaper, and the reflected portion arched outward may be placed towards the diaper from the waistband .

As shown representatively, the diaper 10 may include a waist elastic 42 positioned at the longitudinal margins of either or both of the front waistband 14 and the waistband waistband 12. The waist elastics may be composed of any suitable elastomeric material, such such as an elastomeric film, an elastic foam, multiple elastic threads, an elastomeric fabric or the like. For example, suitable elastic waist constructions are described in U.S. Patent No. 4,916,005 to Lippert et al., The complete description thereof being incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent with this. .

With reference to the representative configurations shown in Figures 1 and 2, the article may include a system of regions of "ear" or ear members 38. In particular arrangements, each ear region or ear member 38 extends laterally in the opposite side ends of at least one waistband portion of the bottom sheet 30, such as the rear waistband portion shown representatively 12 to provide the end side sections of the article. In addition, each ear region can extend essentially from a terminal waistband extending laterally to approximately the location of its associated and corresponding leg opening section of the diaper. The diaper 10, for example, has a pair of laterally opposed leg openings provided by the arched margins of the ear regions in combination with the correspondingly adjacent middle sections of the shown pair of longitudinally extending side edge regions 20 (Fig. 1). ).

In the various configurations of the invention, the ear regions can be formed integrally with a selected diaper component. For example, the ear regions 38 can be formed integrally from the layer of material which provides a bottom sheet layer 30, or can be formed integrally from the material used to provide the top sheet 28. In alternate configurations, the ear regions 38 may be provided by one or more separately provided members that are connected and assembled to the lower sheet 30, the upper sheet 28, and between the upper sheet and the lower sheet, or in various combinations fixedly held in such assemblies.

In particular configurations of the invention, each of the ear regions 38 can be formed from a separately provided piece of material which is then assembled and suitably fastened to the selected front and / or back waistband portion of the diaper article. For example, each ear region 38 can be fastened to the rear waistband portion of the bottom sheet 30 along a ear region fastening zone, and can be operably fastened to either or both of the fastener components. a a ^ JüA-bottom sheet and top sheet of the article. The region of the inner restraint region of each ear region may be overlapped and laminated with its corresponding lateral end edge region of the waistband section of the article. The ear regions extend laterally to form a pair of opposite waist flap sections of the diaper, and are secured with suitable connecting means, such as the adhesive bond, the thermal bond, the ultrasonic joint, the fasteners, the staples, the stitched or similar. Desirably, the ear regions extend laterally beyond the terminal side edges of the upper sheet layer and the lower sheet layer in the corresponding fastened waistband section of the article.

The ear regions 38 may be composed of an essentially non-elastomeric material, such as polymer films, woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics or the like, as well as combinations thereof. In particular aspects of the invention, the ear regions 38 may be composed of an essentially elastomeric material, such as a stretched-bonded-laminate (SBL) material, an elastomer-bonded-laminated-bonded (NBL) material, an elastomeric film , an elastomeric foam material or the like, which is elastomerically stretchable at least along the lateral direction 24. For example, meltblown elastomeric fibrous fabrics suitable for forming the ear regions 38 are described in the US Pat. the The United States of America No. 4,663,220 to T. Wisneski et al., Which was granted on May 5, 1987, the complete description of which is incorporated herein by reference. Examples of composite fabrics comprising at least one layer of the non-woven textile fabric secured to a fibrous elastic layer are described in European patent application EP 0 217 032 A2 published on April 8, 1987, which has listed to the inventors J. Taylor et al., whose full description of which is incorporated by this reference. Examples of the materials referred to as bonded and narrowed are described in United States of America Patent No. 5,226,992 issued to Mormon, which was issued on July 13, 1993, the complete description of which is incorporated herein by this reference in a manner which is consistent with it.

As previously mentioned, various constructions suitable for securing the ear regions 38 to the selected waistband portions of the article may be employed. Particular examples of constructions suitable for securing a pair of resiliently stretchable members to the side side portions of an article to extend laterally outwardly beyond the laterally opposite side regions of the outer shell and the lining components of an article can be found in United States Patent No. 4,938,753 to VanGompel et al., which was issued on July 3, 1990, the complete description of which is kA? AÍ?. ?? * > t * "f ^ - * 1 - - | fc ... y. *» fc¡k, ¡^ .t. ^ ..- fc ... it is incorporated by reference in a manner that is consistent with the present.

Each of the ear regions 38 extends laterally at one of the opposite lateral ends of at least one waistband section of the diaper 10. In the embodiment shown, for example, a first pair of ear regions extends laterally at the ends thereof. opposite side ends of the rear waistband section of the bottom sheet 30. Additionally, a second pair of ear regions may be included to extend laterally to the opposite side ends of the front waistband section of the bottom sheet. The ear regions illustrated have a tapered, curved, or otherwise contoured shape in which the longitudinal extent of the base region relatively inward is greater or smaller than the longitudinal extent of its relatively outer end region. Alternatively, the ear regions may have an essentially rectangular shape, and optionally may have an essentially trapezoidal shape.

The diaper 10 may also include a pair of elasticized containment flaps 62 which extend generally longitudinally along the length direction 26 of the diaper. The containment fins are typically positioned laterally inward of the leg elastics 34 and are essentially placed mutAAr * »*» * '- * - .-. AfK n «tarafeaá8 ¿Ji &ifc..i * ü - * -" "' ^ - > ^ - ^^ a ^ symmetrically on each side of the longitudinal centerline in the direction of diaper length. In the illustrated arrangements, each containment flap 62 has an essentially fixed edge portion 64 and an essentially movable edge portion 66, and is operably elasticated to assist each containment fin to make close contact and conform to the contours of the body. of the user. Examples of suitable containment fin constructions are described in U.S. Patent No. 4,704,116, to K. Enloe, which was issued on November 3, 1987, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in FIG. a way that is consistent with it. The containment fins may be composed of a wettable or a non-wettable material, as desired. In addition, the containment fin material may be essentially impermeable to the liquid, may be permeable only to the gas or may be permeable to both the gas and the liquid. Other suitable containment flap configurations are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,562,650, entitled ABSORBENT ARTICLE HAVING IMPROVED EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT, by R. Everett et al., Which was granted on February 13, 1996. , (attorney's issue No. 11,375), the description of which is incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent therewith.

Still other configurations of the invention may include a combination component that provides a resilient leg gusset and a corresponding containment flap along each side edge region of the absorbent article. Examples of such articles are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,904,675, entitled "ABSORBENT ARTICLE WITH IMPROVED ELASTIC MARGINS AND CONTAINMENT SYSTEM", by D. Laux et al., Which was issued on May 18, 1999. (attorney's case No. 11,091.1), and United States of America patent No. 5,993,433, entitled ABSORBENT ARTICLE WITH ELASTIC DESIGN INCREASED FOR AN AESTHETIC AND IMPROVED CONTENTION, by RG St. Louis et al., Which was granted on November 30, 199 (attorney's case No. 13,346). The full descriptions of these documents are incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent therewith.

In the optional configurations of the invention, the diaper 10 may include the internal elasticized containment waist flaps, such as those described in United States of America Patent No. 4,753,646 issued on June 28, 1988 to K. Enloe; and in the patent of the United States of America No. 5,827,259, entitled AN ABSORBENT ARTICLE WITH IMPROVED WAISTING AND ELASTIC SYSTEM OF WAIST of D. Laux et al., which was granted on October 27, 1998 (case of lawyer No. 12,122.1); the full descriptions of which are incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent with the present. Similar to the construction of the containment fins, the containment waist fins may be composed of a wettable material or not Wettable as desired. The containment fin material can be essentially liquid permeable, gas permeable only, or gas and liquid permeable to both.

In order to provide a desired resilient fastening system, the diaper 10 can include one or more patches or regions of designated positioning member, as provided by the first primary positioning member shown representatively 50. The positioning member can provide an area of operable objective to generate a releasable securing and that can be restrained with at least one of the fastener appendages 36. In the desired embodiments of the invention, the patch of the positioning member can be placed on the front waistband part 14 of the diaper and located on the outer surface of the lower sheet layer 30. Alternatively, the patch member patch can be placed on a designated inner surface of the sheet. diaper, such as the side-to-body surface of the top sheet layer 28.

Particular arrangements of the invention may include one or more positioning members 50 which may be fastened directly or indirectly to the second waistband portion 14. Desirably, the positioning members are fixed directly to the exterior surface of the appropriate waistband portion. , but can optionally be attached to the side surface to the inner body of the waistband portion of the article. < In the various configurations of the invention, the positioning member 50 may be composed of an essentially non-elastomeric material, such as polymer tapes or films, woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, or the like, as well as combinations thereof. In particular configurations of the invention, the positioning member may be composed of an essentially elastomeric material, such as a stretched-bonded-laminate (SBL) material, an elastomer-bonded laminated-bonded (NBL) material, an elastomeric film, an elastomeric foam material or the like, which is elastomerically stretchable at least along the lateral direction 24.

The various configurations of the invention may include at least one separately provided fastening tab 36 located in either or both of the lateral end regions 86 of the rear waistband 12. Alternatively, the at least one fastening tab provided separately 36 may be located in either or both of the lateral end regions 88 of the front waistband 14. The embodiment shown representatively, for example, has a laterally opposite pair of fastener appendages 36 with one of the fastening appendices located on each of the lateral edges. Distant from the posterior waistband 12. More particularly, each of the fasteners 36 is assembled and clamped to project and extend from an immediately adjacent ear region located in one of the opposite side end regions 86 of the front waistband section 12.

The fastening tab 36 can have any operational form. For example, the shape of the retaining tab can be rectangular, trapezoidal, sinusoidal, rectilinear, curvilinear or the like, as well as combinations thereof. The laterally outer terminal edge of the retaining tab may be rectilinear or curvilinear, and as shown representatively, the terminal edge may be contoured to provide a region of appendage for projecting finger.

The fastener appendage 36 may be composed of an essentially non-elastomeric material, such as polymer tapes or films, woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics or the like, as well as combinations thereof. Optionally, the fastening tab can be composed of an essentially elastomeric material, such as a stretched-bonded-laminate (SBL) material, a tapered-bonded-laminated (NBL) material, an elastomeric film, an elastomeric foam material, or the like , which is elastomerically stretchable at least along the lateral direction 24.

In the various aspects and configurations of the invention, the clamping mechanism between the first selected fastener component and the second fastener component selected may be adhesive, cohesive, mechanical or combinations thereof. In the context of the present invention, a mechanical fastening system is a system which includes the first and second cooperating components which mechanically interengage to provide a desired securing.

Desirably, the first and second fastener components include complementary elements of a cooperatively interengaging mechanical fastening system. The mechanical fastener components can be provided by fasteners of mechanical type, such as hooks, buckles, snaps, buttons and the like, which include mechanical interlocking and complementary and cooperating components.

As shown in the illustrated arrangements, for example the mechanical fastening system can be a type of hook and loop fastening system. Such fastening systems typically include the fastening members that are in the form of a "hook" or a hook-type male component, and include a female "curl" or "curl" type cooperating component, which engages the interconnects releasably with the hook component. Desirably, the interconnection is selectively releasable and can be restrained. Conventional systems are, for example, available under the VELCRO brand. The hook element can be provided by a single barbed hook configuration, a multiple barbed hook configuration, or by means of a generally continuous expanded head configuration, as provided by a mushroom head type of the barbed element. hook. The loop element may be provided by a woven fabric, a non-woven fabric, a knitted fabric, a perforated or perforated layer, and the like, as well as combinations thereof. The many arrangements and variations of the fastener systems have been collectively referred to herein as hook and loop fasteners.

A configuration which employs an interlocked and selectively releasable mechanical fastening system can, for example, locate the first fastener component on at least the designated fastening surface or designated house of the fastening tab 36, and can locate the second fastener component and cooperative on the designated engaging surface of the designated positioning member 50. For example, with the hook-and-loop fastener shown representatively, the fastening component, which is attached to the designated assurance or matching surface of the fastening tab 36 may include a type of mechanical hook element hook, and the component of Supplementary fastening, which is operably attached and fastened to the designated positioning zone member 50 may include a type of fastening element loop.

It should also be readily apparent that, in the various configurations of the invention, the relative positions and / or materials of the first fastening component and its second complementary and cooperating fastening component can be transported. Therefore, the fastening component which is attached to the designated matching surface of the fastener appendages 36, may include the type of curl of the mechanical fastening element; and the second complementary fastening component, which is operatively attached and fastened to the designated positioning zone member, can include the type of fastening member hook.

Examples of hook and loop fastening systems and components are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,019,073 issued May 28, 1991 to T. Roessler et al., The complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. in a way that is consistent with it. Other examples of the hook and loop fastening systems are described in the patent application of the United States of America series No. 366,080 entitled "HIGH-FELT APPENDIX BRAZIER", filed on December 28, 1994 by G. Zehner et al. ( attorney's case No. 11,571), which corresponds to United States of America patent No. 5,605,735; and the United States of America patent application No. 421,640 entitled MULTIPLE UNION CLAMPING SYSTEM, filed on April 13, 1995 by P. VanGompel et al .; the full descriptions of which are incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent therewith. Examples of fastening appendages constructed with a carrier layer are described in United States of America patent application No. 08 / 603,477 by A. Long et al., Entitled MECHANICAL CLAMPING SYSTEM WITH GRIP APPENDIX, and filed on March 6, 1996 (attorney's case No. 12,563), which corresponds to the United States of America patent No. 5,624,429, which was granted on April 29, 1997, the complete description of which is incorporated by reference here in a way that is consistent with this.

With reference to FIGS. 4, 4A, 5, and 5A, the first fastener component designated 70 may include a material having fastening members (for example, barb-like members shown, or mushroom-shaped members). , which projects outward from the substrate or base layer 110. Each fastening member 56 may have a stem portion 58 with a distal end portion 44, and a fastening element 60 which is desirably positioned in the distant end region of its corresponding rod portion 58 to provide a primary clamping opening 78. The clamping members 56 can be essentially isotropic, non-isotropic, essentially symmetrical, or non-symmetric, as well as combinations thereof. The fastening members 93 may include various types of fasteners 60. For example, the fastening members may include the members of hooks having various types or styles of fastener elements. The clamping hook elements may include the barb-like elements, the J-shaped elements, the T-shaped elements, the mushroom lid elements, the nail head elements or the like, as well as combinations of the same. Thus, the various configurations of the invention may include a first fastener component 70 which includes the fastening members composed of a combination of two or more styles of hooks. For example, the first fastener component may include a combination of J style hook members and members of mushroom style hooks.

The rod part 58 of each clamping member has a fixed end region 43, and a distal end region 44 which, desirably is contiguously attached to the fixed end region. The fixed end region of the rod part is operably linked to the substrate layer 110, and the remote end region is operably linked to its corresponding associated fastener element 60. The rod portion 58 is sufficiently rigid to maintain the positioning designated vertical and the designated directional alignment of the fastener element 60 during the ordinary operation of the first fastener component in the fastener system. More particularly, the rod portion is sufficiently resistant to bending and twisting to operably maintain the desired vertical positioning and directional alignment of the fastening element. The substrate layer 110 has a substrate thickness 112, a clamping member surface 114, and an opposing substrate mounting surface 116. The selected clamping members are attached to the substrate layer 110, and project outward from the substrate layer 110. the surface of the holding member 114.

As representatively shown in Figures 4 and 4A, particular aspects of the invention may incorporate the non-isotropic fastening members where the non-isotropic fastening members are configured to provide a directional or direction-dependent engagement with the second component. cooperating fastener 72. Therefore, with respect to a selected engagement parameter, the non-isotropic fastening member may provide a combination of two or more different fastening engagement values, with the value depending on the direction along which the selected coupling parameter is measured. Therefore, the non-isotropic (anisotropic) property of a fastener component pertains to the difference in one or more fastening properties that can be exhibited when the fastening component and the associated fastening members are tensioned or otherwise subjected to effort throughout different directions which are aligned essentially parallel to or generally along the extending area, flat "x-y", of the fastening component. In particular, the clamping members may exhibit at least one direction of pressure along which a selected clamping property., such as the peel force, the cutting force or the like, has a relatively different value. For example, the clamping property may have at least one direction of pressure along which a clamping property, such as the peel force, the cutting force or the like, has a relatively maximum value. Similarly, the clamping members may exhibit at least one direction of pressure along which the selected clamping property has a relatively minimal value. The direction of the maximum value may or may not be essentially opposite to the direction of a relatively minimal value.

Therefore, the non-isotropic chucking member can provide a higher (not lower) shear force value or a peel force value depending on the direction along which the shear force or shear force value is determined. of peeling. The non-isotropic characteristic can be generated by several suitable mechanisms, such as a difference in shape, size dimension, contour, projection length, projection angle, type of material, type of coating or other treatment, surface texture, surface topography, coefficient of friction, cohesion or the like, as well as combinations thereof. The non-isotropic fastening member may have a limited degree of symmetry, such as a bilateral symmetry. Suitable non-isotropic fastening members may, for example, be provided with generally T-shaped or inverted J-shaped fastening members. In another aspect, the first fastener component can include the essentially isotropic fastening members, as representatively shown in Figures 5 and 5A. The isotropic fastening members have fastening elements which are positioned substantially uniformly with respect to a primary axis of the fastening member. Therefore, isotropic fastening members can exhibit essentially equal clamping properties in essentially all directions that are parallel to a plane that is generally established by the substrate layer of the first fastener component. For example, the essentially isotropic desfoiling members may be provided by the mushroom-shaped fastening members wherein the upper part of the fungus is essentially symmetrically distributed around its erect stem portion and wherein the resulting fastening aperture is essentially continuously distributed. similarly around its part of erect stem. In additional aspects, the clamping properties of the joining members may be symmetrical and equal in value with respect to the predetermined and selected sets of the opposite directions. The examples of the clamping members symmetrical include the T-shaped hook members. Other examples of suitable isotropic stripping members and symmetric clamping members are representatively shown and described in the United States of America patent application serial No. 09 / 156,185, entitled SYSTEM OF MECHANICAL SUBJECTION HAVING SECTIONS WITH ARRANGED COUPLING MEMBERS, by A. Long and others, (attorney's issue No. 13,279), the complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent therewith.

Desirably, the presence of the operative fastening members can extend essentially continuously along approximately the full length dimension of the outer terminal edge of the fastener appendage. In optional configurations, an essentially non-engaging lifting appendage may be provided along a portion of the dimension in the longitudinal direction of the outer terminal edge of the fastening tab. The lifting tab can be integrally formed of the designated fastening component or the fastener appendage substrate, or it can be a separately provided member which is assembled and fixed along the outer terminal edge of the fastener appendage.

With reference to Figures 6 to 7A, each stem member 94 may have a stem length 105, a stem height 104, a stem width 106 and a distant end part 107. Additionally, each stem member may have a selected shape along its length. The shape in the longitudinal direction can be essentially constant (for example, Figure 6) or it can be varied and not constant (for example, Figure 7). So, the stem members may have essentially straight sides, tapered sides, inclined sides, contoured sides, as well as combinations thereof. Additionally, the far end regions of the stem members can have a "golf ball" shape, bulbous or otherwise expanded. With reference to Figures 6A and 7A, each stem member may also have a selected cross-sectional shape, and in the arrangement shown, the stem member has an essentially circular cross-sectional shape. Optionally, the cross-sectional shape can be oval, elliptical, oblong, rectilinear, polygonal or the like, as well as combinations thereof. In the arrays shown representatively, the stem members are essentially perpendicular to their associated and connected substrates 110. The stem members may, however, be alternately aligned with their center axes in a longitudinal direction biased to a selected angle of inclination which is tilted out from the perpendicular.

Where the stem member has tapered or tapered sides, the sides may have a selected draft angle. Where each stem member is built in According to a mold cavity, for example, the draft angle can be a certain angle between an axis of the mold cavity and a side wall of the mold cavity. In particular aspects, the draft angle may be up to about 15 degrees, and may alternatively be at least about 20 degrees, or more, to provide the desired performance.

In other aspects, the far end portion of the stem member may have a maximum end extension 108 which is not more than a maximum of about 130% of the minimum width 106 of its corresponding stem member. The end extension may alternatively not be more than about 115% of the minimum width 106 of its corresponding stem member, and optionally may not be more than about 104% of the minimum width 106 of its corresponding stem member to provide the improved effectiveness. Although the invention does not contemplate a minimum value required for the end extension of the distal end portion of the rod member, the end of the rod member must be sufficiently large, or otherwise configured to avoid excessive irritation to the user of the rod member. Article.

If the end extension is very large, the stem member 94 can excessively interfere with the generation of the desired peel strength value within its corresponding engagement section. Therefore, the fastener system may not generate the desired combination of force ^ A.a.3 of peeling and cutting force. If the stem end extension 108 is very small, the distal ends projecting from the stick members may be excessively hard and further irritating.

For the purpose of determining the end extension percentage, the end extension will typically occur at or near the terminal free end of the stem member. Additionally, the minimum stem width is a width dimension that is operably engageable by means of a cooperating curl material. Therefore, the topographic features of the stem member that will be overexpanded by a curl material, features such as surface holes, indentations and grooves, will be ignored when the minimum effective width dimension is determined. Typically the minimum width will occur at a location along the height dimension in the longitudinal direction of the stem member.

The determination of the percentage of end expansion that is provided by a particular stem member can be determined by employing a projected side view of the stem member. Typically, the selected side view is one which is expected to provide the maximum value for the end extension percentage. The measurements of the end extension and the minimum width of the thallus member were taken with respect to the projection of a selected lateral view on an appropriate observation surface.

With reference to Figure 7, particular aspects of the invention may include the stem members 94 which have a stem height of 104 which is at least a minimum of about 0.25 centimeters. The stem height may alternatively be at least about 0.04 centimeters, and optionally may be at least about 0.05 centimeters, or more to provide improved performance.

In various configurations of the invention, the fastening members in a selected hook section can provide an average hook height value 100, and the stem members in the selected hook section can provide an average stem height value which is the selected percentage of the average hook height value. For example, a selected hook section may include the stem members having an average stem height which is at least a minimum of about 10 percent of the average hook height value. The value of stem height may alternatively be at least about 30%, and optionally may be at least 50% of the average hook height value to provide the improved benefits. Additionally, stem members can provide a jj £, A.éiÍ? í * l? -íi, - ~ - * -? A * tA *** .... average stem height value 104 which is no more than tita. maximum of about 97% of the average hook height value. The stem height value may alternatively not be more than about 80%, and optionally may not be more than about 70% of the average hook height value to provide improved effectiveness.

In the arrangements of other selected hitch sections, the stem members can provide an average stem height value which is up to about 105% of the average hook height value. The stem height value may alternatively be up to about 125%, and optionally it may be up to about 150% of the average hook height value to provide the improved benefits. In additional arrangements, the stem members can provide an average stem height value which is no more than a maximum of about 300% of the average hook height value. The value of stem height may alternatively not be more than about 250%, and optionally may not be more than about 200% of the average hook height value to provide enhanced effectiveness.

If the stem height values are very small, the stem members will not adequately provide the desired level of cutting force engagement with the second cooperating mechanical fastener component 72. If the values ltí .- ??. i? * l.???. *?. **. «^ To ... • • • • • • • • • • • • The height of the stem is very large, the stem members may present an array of rough projections that may be unpleasant to the touch and may provide a excessive irritation.

With reference to FIGS. 8 and 8A, the first fastener component 70 includes a plurality of engaging members having at least a first number of engagable stem members 94. Additionally, the first fastener component may include a first primary amount of members. of clamping 93 that have clamping head elements. Where the first fastener component 70 includes a combination of stem members 94 and clamping members 93, the stem members and the clamping members may be distributed uniformly or non-uniformly through the area of the first fastener component. The distributions of the stem members and the fastening members can be in any desired pattern. For example, the stem members and / or the clamping members may be arranged along the lines in the machine direction, the lines in the transverse direction, diagonal lines, arched lines, linear or curvilinear patterns, chessboard, or similar, as well as combinations thereof.

The various quantities, concentrations, distributions, combinations or other configurations of the Stem members and / or clamping members can be selected and arranged to generate the desired combinations of peel force value and shear force value in the first overall fastener component 70. In addition, the various configurations and arrangements of the stem members and / or clamping members can be selected to generate the desired combinations of peel force value and shear force value in each individual engagement section of the first fastener component. Thus, each hook section can be tailored to provide the desired combinations of reliable securing and ease of attachment and release of the fastener.

The first mechanical fastening component 70 may include a plurality of engaging members 56 in which the number of individual stem members 94 is at least a minimum of about 5% of the total number of engaging members 56 in the first fastening component . The number of individual stem members can alternatively be of at least about 10%, and optionally, may be at least about 15% of the total number of engagement members to provide improved performance. In other aspects, the number of individual stem members may not be more than a maximum of about 97% of the total number of hook members. The number of individual stem members may alternatively not be more than about 65%, and optionally, may not be more than about 35% of the total number of coupling members to provide improved effectiveness.

If the percentage of the stem members is very low, the amount of peeling strength can be very high and the fastening system can be excessively difficult to disengage. If the percentage of stem members is very large, the amount of peel strength may be very low and the fastener system may be excessively susceptible to premature openings.

In other aspects, the number of individual fastening members 93 may be a selected percentage of the total number of engaging members 56. Desirably, the number of fastening members 93 may be at least a minimum of about 3% of the total number of the engagement members 56 on the first fastener component. The number of individual fastening members may alternatively be at least about 10%, and optionally, may be at least about 15% of the total number of fastening members to provide improved performance. In other aspects, the number of individual attachment members may not be more than a maximum of about 95 percent of the total number of attachment members. The number of individual desujection members may alternatively not be more than about 65%, and optionally, may not be more than "** * £ about 35% of the total number of hitching members to provide improved effectiveness.

If the percentage of fastening members is very low, the fastener system may experience excessive openings, or it may be opened very easily by active infants. If the percentage of the clamping members is very large, the clamping system can be difficult to open, particularly after a period of extended use.

With regard to particular aspects of the invention, the first fastening component 70 may further include a first latching section 52 and a second latching section 54 (eg, Figure 9). Each of the individual hitch sections can incorporate any desired combination of the hitch member distributions, hitch member concentrations, hitch member alignments, stem member parameters, clamping member parameters, and similar, which are described in the present description.

In other configurations, the first fastening component 70 may further include two or more latching sections with each latching section having an individualized combination and / or individualized distribution of the latching members (eg, FIG. 19). For example, such hitch sections may include a different combination of stem members and clamping members. As a result of this, each latching section can provide a different individualized combination of the securing cutting force and the securing stripping force. The engaging sections that differ, such as sections 52 and 54, may also include combinations of distinctive features which provide the desired combinations of notch, comfort and belay strength.

With reference to example illustrated in Figures 9 and 9A, the first hook section 52 can include the hook members which are essentially composed of 100% of the clamping members 93. Additionally, the second hook section 54 can include the members of hooking which are essentially composed of 100% of stem members 94. As a result of this, the relatively outside engaging section can contribute a large amount of cutting force engagement while providing a relatively low level of snagging engagement. peeling strength. The relatively low peel force engagement can make it easier to locate and lift the outer end of the first fastener component 70 for releasing the fastener.

With reference to Figures 10 and 10A, the first inner engagement section 52 may include a number of engaging members which are composed of essentially 100% of stem members 94. Additionally, kAikÁÁi. . • *. - *.,. L - *.,. * »* * Pí. ** ..-. 3 * lft¡t. -..- J.fc.1, M? The second relatively outside engaging section 54 may include a second amount of engaging members which is essentially composed of 100% of fastening members 93.

As a result of this, the clamping system can provide a high shear force value in combination with a relatively low peel force value. At the same time, the concentration of the fastening members 93 in the outer engagement section 54 can reduce the risk of premature and unwanted disengagement of the first fastener component.

With reference to Figures 11 and HA, the first fastener component 70 may have a first hook section 52 which includes a combination of fastening members 93 and stem members 94. Additionally, the first fastener component may have a second fastener section. of hook 54 in which approximately 100% of the hook members are stem members 94. As a result of this, the outer section 54 can contribute a high amount of shear force value while also providing a force value of low peeling in the second hitch section. This low peel force value can facilitate the meeting and lifting of the distal end of the fastening tab 36. In addition, the inner engagement section 52 can maintain a high shear force value while exhibiting a relatively lower peel force value. The lower peel force value can be advantageously referred to the complaint of an excessively strong clamping that can develop between the first clamping component and its second cooperating clamping component after a period of extended use.

With reference to FIGS. 12 and 12A, the first fastening component 70 may include a first interior latching section 52 in which approximately 100% of the latching members are provided by the stem members 94. Additionally, the second latching section. outer 54 of the first fastener component may include the engaging members composed of a combination of fastening members 93 and stem members 94. As a result of this, the fastening system may be configured with a high total cutting force value , while a relatively greater peel force value is provided in the outer engagement section 54 to decrease the risk of premature and unwanted unhooking.

With reference to FIGS. 13 and 13A, the first fastener component may have a first interior latch section 52 in which essentially 100% of the latch members are fastening members 93. Additionally, the first fastener component may have a second fastener section. of exterior hook 54 which includes a combination of stem members 94 and clamping members 93. As a result of this, the clamping system can have a general high shear force value and a general high shear force value , while having a relatively lower peel force value in the second engagement section 54 to provide easier lifting of the second engagement section.

With reference to FIGS. 14 and 14A, the first fastening component 70 may have a first inner engagement section 52 which includes a combination of the stem members 94 and the fastening members 93. Additionally, the first fastening component may include an outer engaging section 54 in which essentially 100% of the engaging members are clamping members 93. As a result of this, the clamping system can provide high overall shearing force and shear values, while also providing a relatively high peel force value in the outer engagement section 54 to provide increased resistance to release.

With reference to Figures 15 and 15A, the first fastening component 70 may have a combination of fastening members 93 and stem members 94. The fastening members may have different heights, and the stem members may have different heights. Additionally, the heights of the stem members 94 may be relatively higher or shorter than the heights of the fastening members 93, as desired.

With reference to Figures 16 and 16A, the first fastener component 70 may include another combination of fastening members 93 and stem members 94. In eg & arrangement, essentially all stem members 94 may have heights that are relatively greater that the heights of the clamping members 93. Optionally, and essentially, all the stem members 94 have heights that are relatively smaller than the heights of the clamping members 93.

With reference to Figures 17 and 17A, the first fastening component 70 may have a plurality of latching sections with each latching section having a combination of stem members 94 and clamping members 93. In a latching section, the height of the talo members 94 may be greater than the height of the fastening members 93. In another section, the height of the stem members 94 may be equal to or less than the height of the fastening members 93 (see FIGS. and 15A).

With reference to FIGS. 18 and 18A, the first fastener component 70 may have a plurality of engaging sections, such as latching sections 52 and 54. Each latching section may include a different amount of stem members 94 and a different amount. of clamping members 93. A latching section may have a greater number or a greater number of stem members 94 in I ^ A ^. ^ t? á? ^ - ^ .. Íi? »? ll t? ti ^^. ? ^ j. ""TO, -, *. ... * ***** AÍ ^ -. ^ ». »». «--- l .. ~ - ^? * J *? *. I.- ?? ± ..j? £ .. *. ~ ¿* .Í.? *. L. comparison with another coupling section. Similarly, a latching section may include a greater number of fastening members 93 compared to another latching section. In addition, a latching section may have a relatively higher concentration of stem members 94 compared to another latching section, and a latching section may have a relatively higher concentration of fastening members 93 compared to another latching section.

The various arrangements of the first fastener component may include a plurality of stem members having essentially uniform width dimensions, or may include a plurality of stem members having a combination of different width dimensions. In particular arrangements, for example, each engagement section may include the stem members having a selected width dimension or a selected combination of width dimensions, as representatively shown in Figures 17 to 10A. By employing a selected width dimension or a combination of width dimensions, the stiffness and flexibility of the stem members can be configured to help adjust the feel of the first fastener component and to help adjust the value or values of shear force provided by the fastener system.

With reference to Figures 19 and 19A, the first fastener component 70 may include the first and second hook sections 52 and 54 which are spaced apart by a transition zone 76 which provides a separation area 82 which is essentially Free of the hitch members. The separation area can also be essentially free of other protuberances.

With reference to Figures 20 and 20A, the first fastener component 70 may include two or more catch sections 52, 54 and 96. Each of the catch sections may have the configuration of a strip region which extends as far as possible. length of the longitudinal direction 96 of the article. Additionally, each of the engaging sections may have a different combination of the clamping members 93 and the stem members 94.

As representatively shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, at least one immediately adjacent pair of the engaging sections may have the configuration of the longitudinally extending strip regions. In addition, the immediately adjacent pair of latching sections can be spaced apart by a fastener transition region 76 which includes a spacing area 82 which is essentially free of the fastening members. In addition, the immediately adjacent pair of latching sections can be spaced apart by a separation area 82 which is essentially free of protuberances having a height of more than about 0.2 millimeters. In the -? - - ** K desired arrangements, the separation area 82 can provide a separation distance 84 which is not more than a maximum of about 20 millimeters. Alternatively, the separation distance may not be more than about 10 millimeters, and optionally, may not be more than about 3 millimeters to provide improved performance. The minimum separation distance can effectively be the selected distance between the immediately adjacent clamping members.

In the various arrangements of the invention, the first plurality of stem and / or clamping members in the first engaging section 52 can have a first pattern of arrangement, and the second designated plurality of stem and / or clamping members in the second engagement section 54 may have a second arrangement pattern, with the second arrangement pattern differing from the first arrangement pattern.

In particular aspects, the first plurality of fastening members in the first engagement section may include a first distribution of non-isotropic hook members, and the second fastening section may include a second plurality of fastening members which includes a second fastening member. distribution of members of non-isotropic hooks. Each of the non-isotropic hook members may have a stem portion 58 with a distant end region 44, and may have a non-isotropic fastener 60 placed in the far end region of its corresponding rod part. The first distribution of the non-isotropic hook members may have a first alignment pattern of their non-isotropic fastening elements, and the second distribution of the non-isotropic hook members may have a second alignment pattern of their non-isotropic fastening elements. . The second alignment pattern may differ from the first alignment pattern to provide a selected difference in the latching forces generated by the first and second latching sections.

In other aspects, the first plurality of the fastening members 94 in the first engagement section 52 may include a first distribution of non-symmetrical hook members, and the second plurality of fastening members in the second engagement section 54 may include a second distribution of non-symmetric hook members. Each non-symmetrical hook member may have a shank portion 58 with a distal end region 44 and may have a non-symmetrical holding head element 60 positioned in the far end region of its corresponding shank portion. The first distribution of the non-symmetric hook members may have a first alignment pattern or its non-symmetrical fastening elements, and the second distribution of non-symmetrical hook members may have a second alignment pattern of its non-symmetrical fastening elements. . The second alignment pattern may differ from the first alignment pattern for i_t? _jjnt * - '* -M «fcÜ ~ -al *****. , *? * X.M provide a selected difference in the latching forces generated in the first and second latch sections 52 and 54, respectively. Examples of suitable arrangement patterns and alignment patterns are described in United States of America Patent Application Serial No. 09 / 156,185 filed on September 17, 1998 and entitled MECHANICAL CLAMPING SYSTEM WHICH HAS SECTIONS WITH ARRANGED COUPLING MEMBERS of A. Long and others (attorney's issue No. 13,279).

In the various configurations of the invention, the patterns of distribution of the fastening members and of the alignment patterns of the associated fastening elements and of the fastening openings are typically determined with respect to the first fastening component prior to their engagement with the second fastening component. complementary and designated bra component. In the desired aspects, the distribution patterns and alignment patterns are essentially maintained when the first and second fastener components are operatively interengaged.

In addition, the individual fastening members are typically flexible and resilient, but will essentially retain their initial shape during ordinary use. When flexed or deformed during ordinary use, the clamping members will essentially avoid plastic deformation to hold **? * Jk.Ú the deformation, and instead of this, they will essentially return or * 3"jump back" to their original orientations and forms.

With reference to Figures 21 and 21A, for example, the first fastening component 70 may include a plurality of latching sections 52 and 54, and may include the non-isotropic and non-symmetrical fastening members 93. In a latching section, the unsymmetrical clamping members have a first alignment pattern and in the other engagement section the clamping members have a second different alignment pattern.

With reference to another example shown representatively in FIGS. 22 and 22A, the first fastening component 70 may include a plurality of latching sections 52 and 54 which include the non-isotropic fastening members 93. In the configuration shown representatively, the members non-isotropic fasteners have a bilateral symmetry. In a latching section, such as the inner latching section 52, the clamping members have a first alignment pattern, and in the other latching section, such as the outer latching section 54, the clamping members 93 have a second alignment pattern.

With reference to figures 23 and 23A, the limits of the various attachment sections of the first component Bra may have one or more non-rectilinear configurations. The representatively shown arrangement, for example, has a second hook section of generally a crescent shape 54 is positioned along a laterally outer edge region of the first hook section 52. The arrangement shown has the second hook section approximately centered along the longitudinal direction 26 of the fastener. Optionally, the second engaging section may not be centered along the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the area of the second latching section 54 is attempted within the area of the first latching section 52. The second latching section contains a higher proportion of stem members 94, as compared to the first latching section, and in the arrangement shown, the second hook section contains approximately 100% stem members. As a result of this, the second latching section 54 can thus provide an area along the edge laterally outwardly of the fastener having a relatively low peel force engagement. The low peel force region can provide a convenient finger pick-up region which can be easily located, lifted and gripped to detach the retaining tab.

Where the first fastener component 70 or a particular fastener section 52 or 54 has a relatively higher concentration or amount of stem members 94, the first fastener component or the particular fastener section, can provide an increased cut-off value. without excessively increasing the associated peel force value. In the examples of the various configurations of the invention, the first engaging section 52 may include a first plurality of engaging members 56 having a first amount of engagable stem members 94, and the second engaging section 54 may include a second plurality of engaging members having a second amount of hooked stem members (for example, figures 18 and 18A). In desired arrangements, the second number of stem members differs from the first number of stem members. In more particular arrangements, the second number of stem members may be greater or less than the first number of stem members. The first plurality of latching members in the first latching section 52 can provide a first concentration of stem members per unit area, and the second plurality of latching members in the second latching section 54 can provide a second concentration of latch members. Stem members per unit area.

The second concentration of stem members may differ from the first concentration of stem members to provide a selected difference in the latching cut forces generated in the first and second engaging sections 52 and 54, respectively. In the configurations In particular, the first concentration of stem members is greater than the second concentration of stem members, and the latching cutting force generated in the first engaging section 52 is relatively greater than the latching cutting force generated in the second engaging section. hook 54. Optionally, the first concentration of stem members in the first hook section 52 can be essentially equal to or less than the second concentration of the stem members in the second hook section 54. Therefore, the cutting force of engagement in the first engagement section 52 can be essentially equal to or less than the engagement cutting force generated in the second engagement section 5.

Similarly, the first plurality of latching members in the first latching section 52 can provide a first concentration of fastening members 93 per unit area, and the second plurality of latching members in the second latching section 54 can provide a second one. concentration of clamping members 93 per unit area. The second concentration of clamping members 93 per unit area. The second concentration of clamping members may differ from the first concentration of clamping members to provide a selected difference in the engagement peel forces generated in the first and second engagement sections 52 and 54, respectively. In particular configurations, the first concentration of the clamping members is greater than the second concentration of clamping members. the clamping members, and the latching side force generated in the first latching section 52 is relatively greater than the latching force generated in the second latching section 54. Optionally, the first concentration of the clamping members in the first engagement section 52 may be essentially the same or smaller than the second concentration of engagement members in the second engagement section 54. Thus, the engagement peel force in the first engagement section 52 may be essentially the same or lesser that the engagement peel force generated in the second engagement section 54.

In still other aspects, the first plurality of engagement members 56 may include the first amount of engagable stem members 94 combined with a first amount of attachment members 93. Additionally, the second plurality of engagement members may include the second. number of engagable stem members combined with a second amount of fastening members. Thus, the first latching section 52 can provide a first combination of securing cutting force and securing stripping force, and the second engaging section 54 can provide a second combination of such cutting and stripping forces.

In particular aspects, the peel strength value provided by the second engagement section 54 can i. tt? * á ..- ?? ti ÍI-Í ?. * í * uíS¡e - ^ ¡jí, ksb * j? ¡Nt be equal to or greater than the peel strength value provided by the first engagement section 52. In still further aspects, the peel force value provided by the second engagement section 54 may be greater than 0, and less than the peel force value provided by the first engagement section 52. In a desired example, the first plurality of engagement members in the first engagement section 52 can provide a high peel force value and a value of low cutting force, and the second plurality of engaging members in the second engaging section 54 can provide a relatively lower peel force value and a relatively higher shear force value. As a result of this, the fastening system can provide a reliable and strong fastening system to be used, while also providing an end edge region that is easy to locate and lift for any desired disengagement.

The first value of peel strength provided by the first hook section 52 can, for example, be at least about 16 grams-force / centimeter hook width (16 gmf / cm). Additionally, the first peel force value may be at least about 80 grams force / cm, and optionally may be at least about 160 grams force / cm to provide improved performance. In additional aspects the first value of peel strength may not be more than a maximum of about 470 grs / f / cm. The first peel force value may alternatively not be more than about 315 gmf / gm and optionally may not be more than about 240 gmf / c to provide additional benefits.

In addition, the second peel force value provided by the second engagement section 54 may be at least about 5% of the first peel force value. The second peel force value may alternatively be at least about 10%, and optionally, may be at least about 15% of the first peel strength value to provide the improved benefits. In other aspects, the second peel force value may not be more than about 100% of its first peel force value. The second peel force value is alternatively not more than about 50% and optionally may not be more than about 25% of the first peel strength value to provide improved performance.

In another aspect of the invention, the first hook section 52 may include a first amount of fastening members having a first combination of hook styles. Additionally, the second engagement section 54 may include a second amount of fastening members having a second combination of hook styles.

In the various arrangements of the invention, the fastening members of each of the first and second engaging sections 52 and 54 can be formed or otherwise provided on a single unitary piece of substrate layer 110. , the designated region of the substrate layer employed for the first hook section 52 may be substantially contiguous with the designated region of the substrate layer employed for the second hook section 54. Alternatively, the fastening members of the hook sections first and second 52 and 54 may be formed or may be provided otherwise on the separately provided and individual parts or sections of the desired substrate layer materials.

The various arrangements of the invention may include a transition region of the fastener 76 located between the selected latching sections (eg, Figures 9 and 19). The transition region may be configured to extend along any operational direction. For example, the transition region 76 may be positioned between the laterally adjacent regions of the first and second engaging sections 52 and 54, and may be configured to extend substantially longitudinally along the longitudinal direction 26 of the article.

In the various configurations of the invention, the desired transition regions or demarcations between the designated latching sections (eg between the latching sections 52 and 54) may be abrupt or gradual. For example, adjacent engaging sections may be configured as distinct aerial sections separate from the fastening component. The latching sections can be sharply and sharply delineated by a different line, space or other generally discontinuous separation region, as representatively shown in the various figures. Alternatively, the latching sections can be gradually delimited by an interconnection transition region wherein one or more of the desired structures or parameters of the individual latching sections can change continuously, in an essential gradient manner, by moving one from one. hook section to another, to one side of the hitch section.

In additional aspects, the first fastener component 70 may include a first latch section 52 having a first plurality of fastening members 56 which provide a first high value of fastening member (eg hook), and a second latching section. 54 having a second plurality of clamping members which provide a second high value of clamping member (eg hook). The second high value differs from the first high value, and in a particular aspect, the second high value can be set to be less than the first high value. In other aspects, the second high value can be configured to be greater than the first high value. In particular configurations, the relatively shorter fastening members that are placed in and distributed over the selected areas can help reduce the engagement force in the selected areas. In other configurations, the relatively shorter clamping members that are positioned and distributed over the selected areas can help reduce red marking and / or skin irritation. Such advantages, for example, arise from having the fasteners located and held in a position that is relatively closer to the base substrate layer and away from the wearer's skin. Examples of the fastening systems that the fastening members have with different heights are shown and described in the United States of America Patent Application Serial No. 09 / 348,860 entitled MECHANICAL CLAMPING SYSTEM WHICH HAS HITCHING MEMBERS WITH SELECTED HEIGHTS DE B. Nortman et al. And filed on July 7, 1999; whose full description is incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent therewith.

For the various configurations of the invention, an example of a suitable hook member is a micro-hook member provided in a material which is distributed under the designation VELCRO HTH 829, and is available from VELCRO USA, Inc., a business which has offices in Manchester, New Hampshire. The micro-hook material has clamping members in the form of angled barb-type hook members. The hook members can be configured with a hook height which is within the range of about 0.030-0.63 cms (about 0.012 inches-0.025 inches); and a hook width which is within the range of about 0.007 to 0.022 cm. The hook elements are molded onto a base layer substrate having a thickness of about 0.0076-0.008 cm, and the hook material has a Gurley stiffness of about 12 milligrams of force (about 12 Gurley units). Other suitable hook members can be found in the hook materials VELCRO HTH 858, VELCRO HTH 851 and VELCRO HTH 863. Another suitable type of the 5 hook fastening members can be found in the 3M CS 200 material available from 3M Company, a business having offices in St Paul, Minnesota.

For the purposes of the present invention, the various stiffness values are determined with respect to a bend moment produced by a force which is directed perpendicular to the plane essentially defined by the length and width of a component being tested. A suitable technique for determining the stiffness values described herein is a Gurley stiffness test, a description of which is established in the TAPPI standard test T 543 om-94 (Paper Bending Strength (Gurley type tester)). A suitable test apparatus is a Gurley digital stiffness tester; model 4171-D manufactured by Teledyne Gurley, a business that has offices in Troy, New York. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the declared Gurley stiffness values are intended to correspond to the values that would be generated by a "standard" size sample. Therefore, the scale readings of the Gurley stiffness tester are appropriately converted to the rigidity of a standard size sample, and are traditionally reported in terms of milligrams of force (mgf). Currently, a standard "Gurley" unit is equal to a stiffness value of one milligram of force and can be equivalently used to report Gurley stiffness.

In the various configurations of the invention, the terry material may be provided by a non-woven, knitted or knitted fabric, as well as combinations thereof. For example, a suitable terrycloth fabric may be composed of a 2 bar warp knit fabric of the type available from Guilford Mills, Inc., of Greensboro, North Carolina under the trade designation # 34285, as well as others. types of knitted fabrics. Suitable terry materials are also available from 3M Company, which has distributed a nylon woven terry under its SCOTCH MATE brand. The 3M Company has also distributed an unlined curl fabric with adhesive on the underside of the fabric, and the 3M woven curl ribbon.

The loop material may also include a non-woven fabric having continuous bonded areas defining a plurality of discrete unbonded areas. The fibers or filaments within the discrete unattached areas of the fabric are dimensionally stabilized by the continuous bonded areas surrounding or encircling each unbonded area, so that a backing layer of film or adhesive backing is not required. The unattached areas are specifically designed to provide spaces between the fibers or filaments within the unattached area which remains sufficiently open or large to receive and engage the hook elements of the complementary hook material. In particular, a non-woven fabric or non-patterned fabric may include a spunbond non-woven fabric formed of spunbonded filaments or multiple components. At least one surface of the non-woven fabric may include a plurality of non-joined and discrete areas surrounded or surrounded by continuous joined areas. The continuous bonded areas dimensionally stabilize the fibers or filaments by forming the non-woven fabric by joining or fusing together the portions of the fibers or filaments that extend outward from the unbonded areas in the bonded areas, while leaving the fibers or filaments within unbonded areas essentially free of binding or fusion. The degree of bonding or fusion within the bond areas desirably sufficient to make the non-fibrous nonwoven fabric within the bonded areas, leaving the fibers or filaments within the non-bonded areas to act as "curls" to receive and hook the elements of hooks. Examples of non-knitted fabrics are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,858,515 entitled WOVEN NON-WOVEN FABRIC WITH PATTERN AND PROCESS TO MAKE IT, of T.J. Stokes et al., Which was granted on January 12, 1999 (attorney's issue No. 12,232); whose full description is incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent with the present.

The terry material is employed in the various configurations of the invention, it does not need to be limited to a discrete or isolated patch on the outer surface of the article. Instead, the loop material can be provided by an essentially continuous outer fibrous layer which is assembled, integrated or otherwise joined to extend over a predetermined surface area of the desired article. For example, the outer fibrous layer can be arranged to extend over essentially the total exposed surface area of a fabric-type outer covering employed with the article.

In the various configurations of the invention, the engaging force between the first selected fastener component and its second cooperating and designated fastener component must be sufficiently large and durable enough to provide adequate securing of the article to the user during use. In particular arrangements, especially where there are sufficiently high levels of latching cutting force provided by the clamping system, the clamping latch can provide a peel strength value of not less than a minimum of about 40 grams / force ( gmf) per inch (16 gmf / cm) of the "width" of engagement between the first and second fastener components. In additional arrangements, the clamping arrangement can provide a peel force value of not less than about 100 grams-force per inch (39 grams-force per centimeter) to provide improved benefits. In the desired configurations, the clamping hitch can provide a peel force value of not less than about 200 grams-force per inch (80 grams-force / cm) of the "width of the hitch between the first and second fastener components. Alternatively, the peel strength is not less than about 300 grams-force / inch) 118 grams-force / cm), and optionally it is not less than about 400 grams-force per inch (160 grams-force / cm) to provide further improved benefits In other respects, the peeling strength is not more than about 1200 grams-force / inch (470 grams-force / cm) .Alternatively, the peeling strength is no more than about of 800 grams-force / inch (315 grams-force per centimeter), and optionally no more than about 600 grams-force per inch (240 grams-force per centimeter) to provide improved performance.

The engaging force between the first selected fastener component and its second cooperating and designated fastener component can further provide a cut-off value of not less than about 400 grams-force per square inch (62 grams-force per square centimeter) ) of the engagement area between the first and second fastener components. Alternatively, the cutting force is not less than about 1000 grams-force per square inch (155 grams-force per square centimeter), and optionally is not less than about 1700 grams-force per square inch (264 grams- strength per square centimeter) in additional aspects, the cutting force can help to be around 4400 grams-force per square inch (682 grams-force per square centimeter) or more. Alternatively, the cutting force is not more than about 3900 grams-force per square inch) 604 grams-force per square centimeter) and optionally is not more than about 3500 grams-force per square inch (542 grams-force / square centimeter) to provide improved performance.

For the various configurations of the invention, the peel force value can be determined according to the standard procedure ASTM D5174, tested on September 15, 1991 and published in November 1991; with the following particular details. The test sample is the fastening appendage of the item that is being evaluated. The extension of the test sample is the dimension aligned to the length of the direction in which the peeling force is typically applied outward to disengage and remove the fastener during ordinary use of the article with which the fastener is employed. The "width" of the sample lies within the general plane of the fastener and is perpendicular to the length of the sample. The roller device weighs 4.5 pounds (2.05 kgs) and includes a rubber coating around the circumference of the roller. A suitable roll is part number HR-100 available from Chemsultants International, a business having a location in Mentor, Ohio. During the engagement of the fastener components, the roller is rolled on the test sample through a cycle in the direction of the "width" in the transverse direction of the sample. In addition, the initial peeling by hand to "raise the curls" is omitted. During the test, the fastener material held by the stationary clamp may be larger in the area, compared to the fastener material held in the clamp in motion. The initial separation distance between the clamps of the tension tester is 4 inches (10.2 centimeters) and the extension speed of the tension test machine is 20 inches / minute (50.8 centimeters / minute). The reported value of a peel test result is a value of "an average of three peaks" using an MTS Testworks software program with a peak criterion of 2%.

Additionally, the peel force value is normalized to be declared in terms of force per unit isl. * ??? * t J * .í **. *? á? *. í. A - - of length of the "width" dimension of the fastener component on the test sample, such as grams per inch or grams per centimeter. The MTS TESTWORKS software is available from MTS Systems Corporation a business having offices in Edn Prairie Minnesota.

The cutting force value can be determined in accordance with standard procedure ASTM D-5169, approved September 15, 1991 and published in November 1991 with the following particular aspects. The test sample is composed of the fastening appendage of the article that is being evaluated. The length of the test sample and the width typically correspond to the length and width used to carry out the test with respect to the peel force value. Ordinarily, the length of the sample of Test is the dimension aligned along the direction in which a cutting force is typically applied to the fastener during ordinary use of the article with which the fastener is employed. The "width" of the sample lies within the general plane of the fastener and is perpendicular to the length of the sample. The roller device weighs 4.5 pounds (2.05 kgs) and includes a rubber coating around the roller. A suitable roller is a part number HR-100 available from Chemsultants International, a business having a location in Mentor, Ohio. During the engagement of the fastener components, the roller is rolled on the test sample through five cycles in the direction of the "width" in the transverse direction of the sample. In addition, the initial peeling by hand to "raise the curls" is omitted. During the test, the fastening material (for example the curl material) held by the stationary clamp may be larger in area, as compared to the fastening material (for example the hook material) held in the moving clamp. The initial separation distance between the clamps of the tension tester is four inches (10.2 centimeters) and the extension speed of the tension test machine is 10 inches per minute (25.4 centimeters per minute). The value of shear force is normalized to be declared in terms of force per unit area of the test sample, such as grams-force per square inch (or gmf / cm2).

The particular details of the standard test procedures are intended to generate clamping conditions that may be more representative of the conditions of consumer use. When preparing the test sample materials (e.g., hook and loop materials) to determine cooperating peel and / or shear strength values for the representatively shown configurations of the invention, it should be noted that the width dimension of the Sample material selected will correspond to the dimension of the fastener material which, in the actual article, is found to be aligned along the longitudinal direction 26 of the article. Similarly, the length dimension of the selected sample material will correspond to the dimension of the fastener material which in the actual article was found to be aligned along the lateral direction 24 of the article.

Desirably, the securing latch between the components of the first and second fastener must be sufficient to prevent a disengagement of the fastening tab 36 out of the positioning member 50 when the fastening tab 36 is subjected to a tension cutting force of at least of about 1,000 grams when the tension force is applied outwardly along the lateral direction aligned generally parallel with the plane of the lower sheet layer 30 of the article.

Each of the fastener components and fasteners in the various constructions of the invention can be operably linked to their support substrate by employing any one or more of the fastening mechanisms employed to build and hold together the various other fasteners. components of the article of the invention. The fastening elements in the various fastening regions can be integrally formed, such as by molding, co-extrusion or the like, together with their associated substrate layer. The substrate layer and its associated mechanical fastening elements can be formed from essentially the same polymer material, and there will be no need for a discrete step of fastening the fasteners to a layer of lxÁ? -A ** íMÁ! ^ A & initially separated substrate. For example, the individual hook elements can be integrally formed simultaneously with a base layer of hooks by co-extruding the base layer and the hook elements of essentially the same polymer material.

It should be readily appreciated that the strength of the fastener or other interconnection between the substrate layer and the attached fastening component must be greater than the cutting force required to remove the fastening tab 36 from its releasable fastener to the designated positioning member of the article.

Having described the invention in considerable detail, it will be readily apparent that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. All such changes and modifications are contemplated as being within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (24)

R E I V I N D I C A C I O N S

1. An article having a first part of article, a second part of article, a fastener for securing said first part of article to said second part of article, said fastener includes: at least a first fastener component attached to said first part of the article; a second cooperating fastener component which is mechanically engageable with said first fastener component is fastened to said second part of the article; wherein said first fastener component includes a plurality of engaging members having a first amount of engagable stem members.

2. An article as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that said plurality of engaging members includes a first primary quantity of clamping members having clamping head elements.

3. An article as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that at least about 5% of the engaging members are stem members.

4. An article as claimed in clause 2, characterized in that at least about 3% of said engaging members are clamping members.

5. An article as claimed in clause 2, characterized in that said fastening members include clamping hook elements.

6. An article as claimed in clause 5, characterized in that the fastening hook elements include mushroom lid elements.

7. An article as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the second fastening component includes a curl material.

8. An article having a first part of article, a second part of article, a fastener for securing said first part of article to said second part of article, said fastener includes: at least a first fastener component attached to said first part of the article; a second fastener cooperating component which is mechanically engageable with said first fastener component is fastened to said second part of the article; wherein said first fastener component includes a first latching section a second latching section; said first latching section includes a first plurality of latching members having a first number of engagable stem members; Y said second engaging section includes a second plurality of engaging members having a second amount of engagable stem members.

9. An article as claimed in clause 8, characterized in that said first plurality of engaging members includes said first quantity of engagable stem members combined with a first quantity of fastening members having fastening elements; Y said second plurality of engaging members includes said second amount of engagable stem members combined with a second amount of fastening members having fastening elements.

10. An article as claimed in clause 9, characterized in that apart said first plurality of engaging members includes said first quantity of engagable stem members combined with a first number of fastening members that have hook elements; said second plurality of engaging members includes said second amount of engagable stem members combined with a second amount of fastening members having hook elements.

11. An article as claimed in clause 8, characterized in that said second number of stem members differs from said first number of stem members.

12. An article as claimed in clause 11, characterized in that said second number of stem members is greater than said first number of stem members.

13. An article as claimed in clause 8, characterized in that said stem members have a minimum stem height which is at least about 0.025 centimeters.

14. An article as claimed in clause 9, characterized in that said clamping members provide an average hook height value, and said stem members provide an average stem height value which is at least about 10% of average value of hook height.

15. An article as claimed in clause 9, characterized in that: said first plurality of fastening members includes a first distribution of non-isotropic hook members, and said second plurality of fastening members includes a second distribution of non-isotropic hook members; each non-isotropic hook member has a shank portion with a distal end region, and has a non-isotropic chucking member positioned in said far end region of its corresponding shank portion; said first distribution of non-isotropic hook members has a first alignment pattern of its non-isotropic fastening elements; Y said second distribution of non-isotropic hook members has a second alignment pattern of its non-isotropic fastening elements, with said second alignment pattern differing from the first alignment pattern. ^ g ^ á ^^^^^ &

16. An article as claimed in clause 9, characterized in that: said first plurality of fastening members includes a first distribution of non-symmetrical hook members, and said second plurality of fastening members includes a second distribution of non-symmetrical hook members; each of the members of non-symmetrical hooks has a shank portion with a distant end region, and has a non-symmetrical holding head element positioned in said far end region of its corresponding shank portion; said first distribution of members of non-symmetrical hooks has a first alignment pattern of their non-symmetrical fastening elements; Y said second distribution of non-symmetrical hook members has a second alignment pattern of its non-symmetrical fastening elements, with said second alignment pattern differing from said first alignment pattern.

17. An article as claimed in clause 9, characterized in that: said first plurality of clamping members has a first clamping member height value; Y said second plurality of clamping members has a second clamping member height value which is smaller than said first clamping member height value.

18. An article as claimed in clause 8, characterized in that said first plurality of engaging members provides a first concentration of stem members per unit area, and said second plurality of engaging members provides a second different concentration of stem members per unit area.

19. An article as claimed in clause 18, characterized in that said first concentration of stem members is greater than said second concentration of stem members.

20. An article as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that at least one immediately adjacent pair of engaging sections have the configuration of longitudinally extending strip regions.

21. An article as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that at least one immediately adjacent pair of latching sections are spaced apart by a separation area which is essentially free of latching members.

22. An article as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that at least one immediately adjacent pair of said engaging sections is spaced apart by a separation area which is essentially free of protuberances having a height of more than about of 0.2 mm.

23. An article as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that said first engaging section is configured to provide a first peel force value, said second engaging section is configured to provide a second peel force value, and said second peel force value is less than said first peel force value.

24. An article as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that said stem member has a stem length, a stem width, and a distal end part; and said far end part has an extension of maximum end which is not more than 130% of said stem width. SUMMARY An article has a first part of article, a second part of article and a fastener. The fastener secures the first part of article, the second part of article and includes at least a first fastener component, which is attached to the first part of the article. A second cooperative fastener component is mechanically interconnectable with the first fastener component and is attached to the second part of the article. The first fastener component includes a plurality of engaging members that have a first amount of engagable stem members. Ot / Seos