MXPA06011312A - Disposable absorbent articles with zones comprising elastomeric components - Google Patents

Abstract

Absorbent articles having a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between said topsheet and said backsheet are disclosed. The absorbent articles include a thermoplastic elastomer joined to or disposed in a stretch zone on at least one component or region of the absorbent article to impart an elastic resistance that provides sizing or shaping capabilities to the article. The absorbent article can be in the form of diapers, pull-on diapers, training pants, sanitary napkins, wipes, bibs, incontinence briefs or inserts.

Description

DISPOSABLE ABSORBENT ITEMS WITH ZONES THAT COMPRISE ELASTOMERIC COMPONENTS FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates in general to disposable absorbent articles such as diapers, panty-type diapers, trainers, sanitary napkins, wet wipes, bibs, incontinence briefs or inserts and the like. More specifically, the invention is directed to absorbent articles having one or more regions containing an elastomeric component. Such components are used in absorbent articles of the invention to provide the desired shape to the article and / or impart the desired stress and strain properties for better fit and comfort of the user and its convenience.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Absorbent products such as diapers, trainers, and incontinence articles generally include elasticized materials such as elastic threads in the waist region and folds that allow a comfortable fit and proper closure of the article. Absorbent articles of the underpants type also include elasticized materials at their side portions to facilitate their placement and removal providing a continuous fit of the article. Elastic materials have also been used in portions of disposable diaper panels to provide the article with an adjustable fit. However, it would be desirable to have materials with improved properties that better define the directionality and intensity of the tension forces provided by the contracting portions of the absorbent article. In this way, these desirable absorbent articles will have the ability to adapt to the shape and size of the user for better fit and comfort and yet have the ability to maintain the required tension on the user to achieve a sustained fit and prevent the article is loosened and / or off-hook. Absorbent articles of this type will result in a better fit in several areas of the absorbent article, e.g. eg, the crotch or the waist region of a diaper, where comfort improvements result. In the case of a diaper, better fit and comfort can also impart better functional performance, such as reduced leakage, since the diaper will conform better to the wearer's shapes. Such features have not been available so far in absorbent articles. There are several approaches to provide the desirable stretch properties in the areas sought in the absorbent articles. The elasticized materials can be strands, films or non-woven fabric webs made of elastomeric materials. Generally, such materials can be stretched in at least one direction and, possibly, in several directions. However, because the films or webs are constructed entirely of elastomeric materials, they are relatively expensive and tend to have more drag on the skin, which results in discomfort for the user of the article. Sometimes, the elastic films are laminated to form one or more layers of non-woven fabric webs. Since typically the typical nonwoven webs are made of thermoplastic fibers, their elasticity is very limited and the resulting laminates are very resistant to stretching. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce this resistance considerably in order to be able to make laminates of functional elasticity. However, these materials do not have sufficient capacity to have the shape and size or conform to the particularities of the user's anatomy when they are applied.

Other techniques for making extensible materials are known, such as the incorporation of stretchable non-woven laminates and stretchable non-woven laminates in a single direction. Stretchable nonwoven laminates are manufactured by stretching an elastic band in the machine direction (MD), laminating it to a nonwoven substrate while it is stretched and releasing the applied tension so that the nonwoven is collected and gathered. Non-woven laminates in a single direction are made by first stretching the non-woven substrate in the machine direction so that it is strangled (i.e., which reduces its CD dimension) and then joining the CD-oriented elastic bands to the substrate, while the substrate is still stretched and strangled. This laminate can be stretched on CD, at least up to the original width of the non-woven before being strangled, The combinations of joints for elongation and throttling are also known because they provide elasticity in the machine direction and in the direction transverse to it. In these approaches, at least one of the components is stressed (i.e., stretched) when the components of the laminates are joined. Again, these materials can not be used effectively in absorbent articles to impart the size and shape characteristics desired by the users of the absorbent articles. Elasticized laminates without resistance to deformation are also known. Gradually stretched laminates can be stretched as far as the extensibility of the non-recoverable (ie, residual) laminate allows. Then the laminates are gradually stretched to impart the properties of elasticity. Gradually stretched laminates can be stretched as far as the extensibility of the non-recoverable (ie, residual) laminate allows. For example, U.S. Pat. no. No. 5,156,793 discloses how to progressively stretch a non-woven laminated elastomer, in a non-uniform manner, to impart elasticity to the resulting laminate. These elastic laminates behave similarly to the materials described above, in that they do not have enough capacity to adapt to the size and shape of the user. However, in all the approaches above, the materials and laminates are manufactured separately and then incorporated into the absorbent article. For example, the stretchable laminates described herein can be cut to the appropriate size and shape and then added to the desired location in the product in a process sometimes called a cut-and-slip process. Due to the different elastic properties required for the different elements of a product it is necessary to make a variety of laminates with different elasticity and cut them into different sizes and shapes. Several cutting and sliding units may be needed to handle the different stretching capacities of the different elastic laminates and to add them to the different locations of the product. As the number of cutting and sliding units multiplies and / or the steps multiply, the process becomes quickly cumbersome, complicated and expensive. These processes are suitable for the modern manufacture of articles and are desirable. However, it would also be desirable to have absorbent articles having desirable size and / or shape characteristics, but which could be disposed in or on the absorbent article without the need for complicated and expensive "cut and slip" processes. An alternative to the cutting and sliding processes used by the industry is to print an elastomeric composition on a substrate. Disclosure examples include U.S. Pat. 6,531, 027 discussing the adhered components of an absorbent article using an adhesive printing process, PCT application no. 03/039420 which discusses a first and second impression on a substrate where the compositions differ in at least one of the following properties: elasticity, melt viscosity, shape, pattern, additional level and PCT application (Patent Cooperation Treaty, International Treaty of Cooperation for Patents) no. WO 03/053308, which discusses the printing of an elastic adhesive on an extensible substrate to provide a tension force when dressing this clothing. Based on the foregoing, it would be desirable to have absorbent articles with stretchable materials having elastic properties such that they can be stretched as much as desired but still retain the desired elasticity to allow a sustained fit of the garment on the wearer. It would also be desirable to have a material that can be easily disposed on any specific area of the absorbent article, or on a component thereof, in any desired amount.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The technical needs mentioned above are met in the present invention, which provides an absorbent article with a material having elastic properties arranged in a predetermined pattern defining an elastic zone that provides directional elasticity and intensity to specific regions of the absorbent article. Intensity is controlled by controlling the amount, location and orientation of a thermoplastic elastomer disposed only over certain regions and regions of the absorbent article or a component thereof. According to one aspect of the invention, an absorbent article is provided with a liquid-permeable top sheet, a waterproof bottom sheet and an absorbent core disposed between the top sheet and the bottom sheet. The article may also include additional features such as one or more openings or side panels, leg cuffs, and fastening components, elastic bands. In other aspects of the invention, the material used in the absorbent article is provided with one or more elastic zones wherein the elastic zones may comprise at least a portion of one or more of the features. In another embodiment of the invention, a plurality of the elastic zones are assembled within a set therein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Fig. 1 is a plan view of a diaper according to the invention; Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing the structure of a diaper having numerous regions with one or more zones or stretching arrangements according to the invention disposed there; Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a brief-type diaper according to the invention; Fig. 4 is a plan view of the calf-type diaper of Fig. 2; Figures 5A and 5B are sectional views of the brief type diaper of Figs. 3 and 4; Figures 6A-I show the presentation of a diaper of the present invention in which the diaper openings have stretch zones of various designs; Figures 7A and 7B show yet another presentation of a diaper according to the invention where there are areas of stretching of the openings and along the absorbent assembly to give the diaper the desired elastic properties; Figures 8A-D illustrate a diaper in which the stretch zones are arranged in a variety of locations to offer various alternative designs for better comfort and user adjustment; Fig. 9 is a plan view according to the invention in which the stretching areas are seen in the openings of the diaper at the front of the waist; Fig. 10 is a plan view of a diaper according to the invention in which the stretching areas of the rear portion of the waist are seen such that there is a longitudinal alignment at least partially with the openings of the diaper; Fig. 11 is a plan view of a diaper having stretch areas at the front of the crotch, according to the invention; Figure 12 is another planar view of a diaper in which the expandable zones are disposed along the side portions of the diaper to provide the desired elastic properties in the leg openings, and Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a diaper in which the elastic zone is used to provide elasticity to a top canvas. Fig. 14 is an example of an effort and strain curve showing the "Available effort".

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Definitions The term "disposable" in this document is used to describe absorbent articles that are generally not intended to be washed or otherwise restored or reused, such as an absorbent article (ie, they are intended to be disposed of after a single use and preferably recycle them, make them compost or otherwise dispose of them in a manner compatible with the environment). As used in this document, the term "arranged" is used to imply that an element is formed (joined and placed) in a particular place or position as a unitary structure with other elements or as a separate element attached to another element. As used herein, the term "attached" encompasses configurations by means of which one element is directly secured to another element by attaching the element directly to the other element and configurations by means of which one element is indirectly secured to another element by fixing the element to intermediate members that in turn are fixed to another element. A "unitary" absorbent article refers to absorbent articles that are formed of separate parts joined together to form a coupled entity so that they do not require separate handling portions, such as a separate fastener and liner. As used herein, the term "diaper" refers to an absorbent article that is usually worn by infants and incontinent persons around the lower torso. "Stretching" means that the material has the ability to extend beyond its original length in at least one dimension when it is subjected to a tensile stress (i.e., tension) applied in the direction of said dimension.

As used herein, the stretch includes plastic and elastic deformation. The specific "stretching" properties of a material can vary along any of its stretch vectors. As used herein, stretching includes plastic and elastic deformations. As used herein, the term "elastic" or "elastomeric" refers to any material that upon application of a deflection force may stretch to an expanded length of at least 125 percent of its original length in a relaxed state. , without ruptures or ruptures, and that when stopping to apply force recovers at least 40% of its elongation, preferably recovers at least 60% of its original length, and more preferably recovers 80% of its original length.

As used herein, the term "non-elastic" refers to any material that does not meet the above definition of "elastic". As used herein, the term "elastic resistance" describes an elastic force that tends to resist an applied tensile force which causes the material provided herein to tend to contract to a tensionless configuration in response to the stretching force. Elastic resistance is conveniently measured using the method described in TEST METHODS in the section below. "Longitudinal" is an address that is in parallel with the maximum linear dimension of the article and includes the directions within ± 45 ° of the longitudinal direction. The "lateral" or "transverse" direction is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. The direction Z "is orthogonal to both the longitudinal and transverse directions.The" xy plane "refers to the plane congruent to the longitudinal and transverse directions.As used herein, the term" waterproof "refers generally to articles and / or elements that are not substantially penetrated by the aqueous fluids through the entire thickness in the Z direction thereof, under a pressure of 1.0 kPa or less.It is preferable that the impermeable article or element is not penetrated by the aqueous fluid under pressure of 3.4 kPa or less, more preferably the article or impermeable element is not penetrated by fluids under pressures of 6.8 kPa or less.An article or element that is not impermeable, is permeable.The term "substrate" as used herein, refers to to any material, including a film, an open film, a non-woven web, a woven web, a foam or combinations thereof, or a cellulosic material that includes a lpa of wood, derived or modified cellulose materials and the like, having a single layer or multiple layers. The term "fibrous substrate" as used herein, refers to any composite material of a multiplicity of fibers which may be of a natural or synthetic material or any combination thereof including, for example, non-woven materials, woven materials, woven fabrics point and any combination of them. The term "nonwoven" as used herein, refers to a fabric made of continuous filaments and / or discontinuous fibers. Non-woven fabrics can also comprise those made by carving staple fibers, applying wet or dry fibers and by means of extrusion processes such as non-woven Spunbonded fabric and blown extrusion. The non-woven fabric material can comprise one or more nonwoven fabric layers wherein each layer may include continuous filaments or discontinuous fibers. The nonwovens may also comprise fibers of two components that may have a shell or a core, side by side, or other known fibrous structures. By "elastic zone" is meant a portion of a region of an absorbent article that has elastic stretch properties. An elastic zone can be spread across an entire region or feature of the article, spread across numerous regions or features, or simply understand a portion of one or more regions or characteristics of the article. A region or feature may also comprise a variety of individual stretching zones. The term "line of force" describes the path through the material or the structure of a frame comprising that material of the frame that is substantially parallel to its surface, connecting two points, zones or characteristics of the material and supporting the greatest part of the tension when it is imposed between those two points, zones or characteristics. The term also applies to several routes with sufficient proximity, properties and direction so that they effectively behave as a single route. The shape, width and behavior of the stress / tension of the course can be controlled by modifying the stress / tension properties of the material at the desired location and direction of the course to produce a greater effective module in the course, compared with the areas adjacent to it. The proportion of the tension supported by the path depends on the difference in the effective module between the path and the adjacent material. It should be understood that a line of force can be defined by the geometry of any stretchable element disclosed herein.

PREFERRED MODES OF THE INVENTION According to one aspect of the invention, an article is absorbent so long as it consists of a liquid-permeable upper sheet, a lower liquid-impermeable sheet and an absorbent core disposed between both canvases. The article may also include one or more features such as, but not limited to, openings or side panels, leg cuffs, fastening components and / or a belt. The absorbent article according to the present invention is also provided with one or more stretching zones. In most cases, such stretch zones comprise, at least, a part of the features mentioned above. In other aspects of the invention, the stretching zones comprise a substrate having an elastomeric composition disposed thereon. The elastomeric composition provides an elastic resistance to the elastic zone against an elongation of at least a part of the elastic zone. In the preferred embodiments of the present invention, the elastomeric composition is disposed on the substrate in a predetermined geometric pattern (ie, shape and orientation) so as to provide the elastic strength in a manner that improves the performance of the feature. Preferably, the design allows the elastic zone to more efficiently support the anchoring loads and the tensile forces induced by application on the user and / or accommodate the movements of the user, and / or the weight of the article or debris contained in the article rather than a typical design without patterns. According to the present invention, an absorbent article must comprise at least one elastic zone in which the elastic zone must consist of an elastomeric composition disposed on a substrate so as to penetrate the substrate at least partially. The area of the elastic zone comprises at least the part of the substrate that is covered by the elastomeric composition. Normally these elastic zones have the following properties: (1) an elastic resistance (ie, the load at 25% tension) of at least about 0.05 N / cm, preferably from 0.05 N / cm to about 50 N / cm, more preferably from about 0.05 N / cm to about 40 N / cm, and most preferably from 0.25 N / cm to about 30 N / cm; (2) a deformation percentage of less than about 15%, preferably less than about 10%; and (3) and a stretch relaxation value of less than about 40%, preferably less than about 30%, and more preferably less than about 25%. The methods for measuring these properties are presented in the TEST METHODS section below. In some presentations, an absorbent article may comprise elastic zones that are associated so as to provide a set of them. Such an arrangement may be arranged in a single region or characteristic of the absorbent article or may extend through two or more regions or features. The arrangement may comprise elastic zones that intersect or not. Also the elastic zones in the assembly can be parallel to each other or form a non-zero angle of one with respect to the other. When the elastic zones in a set do not intersect, the individual elastic zones are cut and their properties can be measured. However, when the elastic zones intersect within a set, it is not possible to separate them. In such cases, samples should be taken and the whole evaluated, as described in the TEST METHODS section below. Suitable elastomeric compositions comprise thermoplastic elastomers selected from a group comprising block copolymers of styrene, catalyzed metallocene polyolefins, polyesters, polyurethanes, polyether amides and combinations thereof. The block copolymers of styrene may be two-block, three-block, tetrablock or any other multi-block copolymer containing at least one block of styrene. Examples of styrene block copolymers include styrene-butadiene-styrene, styrene-isoprene-styrene, styrene-ethylene / butylene-styrene, styrene-ethylene / propylene-styrene and the like. Commercially available styrenic block copolymers include KRATON® from Shell Chemical Company of Houston, TX; SEPTON® from Kuraray America, Inc. of New York, NY; and VECTOR® from Dexco Chemical Company of Houston, TX. commercially available metallocene-catalyzed polyolefins include EXXPOL® and EXACT® from Exxon Chemical Company of Baytown, TX; AFFINITY® and ENGAGE® from Dow Chemical Company Midland, Ml. Polyurethanes include TINN® from Noveon, Inc. of Cleveland, OH. Polyether amides include PEBAX® from Atofina Chemicals of Philadelphia, PA. Among the polyesters available on the market are HYTREL® from E. I. DuPont de Nemours Co. of Wilmington, DE. The elastomeric composition may also comprise additives and / or process oils to adjust the viscosity of the melted compositions to the desired values. They include conventional process oils such as mineral oil, as well as other petroleum oils and waxes such as paraffin oil, naphthenic oil, petrolatum, microcrystalline wax, paraffin or isoparaffin wax. synthetic waxes such as Fischer-Tropsch wax; Also useful in this invention are natural waxes such as spermaceti wax, caranauba, ozocerite, beeswax, candelilla wax, paraffin, ceresin, esparto, myicuri, rezowax and other mineral waxes of mineral origin. It is also possible to use olefinic or diene oligomers and low molecular weight polymers. The oligomers may be polypropylenes, polybutylenes, hydrogenated isoprenes, hydrogenated butadienes or the like with a number average molecular weight of between about 350 and 8000. An important aspect of the present invention is that the elastomer composition is substantially free of adhesion. Adherent agents are well known in the adhesive industry as an element that is added to an adhesive composition to increase its properties (eg, force to take off) This provides important benefits because, in addition to increasing the adhesiveness of an adhesive material, the tackifier acts as a plasticizer of any polymer in the composition, resulting in a reduction in tensile strength due to the presence of the adhesive agent. Preferred presentations of the elastomeric composition have very low peel strength with a standard substrate (304 stainless steel with # 2B termination of Mc Master Carr of Cleveland, Ohio, USA) using the method described in the co-pending US patent. application no. of series 60 / 557,272, called the Typographic Application of the Elastomeric Compositions ("Letterpress Application of Elastomeric Compositions") filed under the name of Desai, et al. on March 29, 2004 (P &G Case No. 9592P). Suitable elastomeric compositions have a peel strength of less than 3 N / cm, preferably less than 2 N / cm, more preferably, less than 1 N / cm and more preferably even 0.8 N / cm when evaluated using the method described in the application mentioned above. In one embodiment it is possible to incorporate a phase change solvent in the elastomeric composition to reduce its melt viscosity by rendering the processable composition at a temperature of 175 ° C or lower practically without compromising its elastic and mechanical properties. A detailed discussion of the phase change solvents can be found in the U.S. patent application. no. of series 10 / 429,432. Alternatively, the elastomeric composition can also comprise low molecular weight elastomers and / or elastomeric precursors of the thermoplastic elastomers described above and, optionally, crosslinking agents, or combinations thereof. The number average molecular weight of the low molecular weight elastomers or the elastomeric precursors is between about 45,000 and 150,000. The elastomeric compositions suitable for use herein are elastic, have no other treatment and do not include volatile solvents whose boiling point is less than 150 ° C. In some embodiments, the elastomeric composition may include precursor components that are activated by a subsequent treatment after the elastomeric composition has been deposited on the substrate, to improve or reinforce its elasticity and other properties such as strength, module and similar. For example, the thermoplastic elastomers described in the copending US patent serial request no. 10/610605, filed under the name of Ashraf, et al. on July 1, 2003, comprising an elastomeric copolymer block having at least one hard block and at least one soft block, a macro initiator photo, a processing oil and, optionally, a thermoplastic polymer and / or an crosslinking agent contain those precursor components. In general, subsequent treatments include drying, crosslinking, curing or polymerization by chemical, thermal, or radiation means (eg, ultraviolet radiation or electron beam radiation), and combinations thereof.

In some preferred embodiments, an elastic zone or a set of elastic zones may comprise more than one elastomeric composition. In those embodiments, the first composition will have at least one of: an elastic strength greater than any of the other elastomeric compositions disposed in the elastic zone or set of elastic zones, a reduced set when compared to any of the other elastomeric compositions arranged on the elastic zone or set of elastic zones and a reduced tension of relaxation. On the other hand, certain parts of a set of elastic zones may consist of a first elastomeric composition and other parts may contain one or more different compositions. The substrate provides a continuous means for deposition of the elastomeric composition and contributes, at least, with part of the final force of an elastic zone. A continuous medium is important, for example for modalities in which the modality consists of a set with separate elastic zones. In some embodiments (eg, those provided by a fibrous substrate), the substrate can also provide the skin with a soft, fabric-like feel for the user's comfort. Suitable substrate materials include but are not limited to: films, foams, woven fabrics, woven or non-woven fibrous webs are known in the industry. In some embodiments, the substrates are extendable nonwoven webs made with polyolefin fibers or filaments such as polyethylene or polypropylene. The substrate material may be elastic or inelastic, extensible or non-stretchable, stretchable or non-stretchable. Preferred substrates have a three-dimensional morphology (ie, by spacing between fibers, projections, holes, etc.) which facilitates the penetration of the thermoplastic elastomer into the substrate, as described below. Suitable elastomeric compositions are preferably applied to the substrate in a fluid or similar state capable of effecting at least partial penetration into the substrate. This partial penetration must be sufficient to provide a bond between the resulting elastomeric composition and the substrate such that the compound remains intact through the subsequent steps of the process, shipping and the cycle of use of the article. It is preferable that the elastomeric composition penetrate only enough to provide the desired integrity during the subsequent process and the use of the article. For example, if the substrate is a fibrous substrate, it is believed that it is sufficient to provide that integrity, that the elastomeric composition penetrates to a depth of one or two diameters of the fibers. The means for achieving sufficient penetration of the substrate of the thermoplastic elastomer by deposition on the substrate includes, among other mechanisms, the absorption of the elastomer within the matrix of the substrate, penetration through all or a part of the thickness of the substrate, absorbing or trapping the three-dimensional protuberances of the substrate (i.e., entanglement between the substrate and the composition), penetration of the holes in the substrate, wetting of a three-dimensional surface of the substrate and the like. To facilitate this partial penetration, the elastomeric composition conveniently has a melt viscosity of from about 1 to 1000 Pa.s at 175 ° C, 5% of the shear stress value of 1 s1 according to the method disclosed in the US Patent. USA published in application no. 2003 / 0091807A1. It is preferable that the melt viscosity be between about 5 and 500 Pa.s, and more preferably between about 10 and about 400 Pa.s. These elastomeric compositions are suitable for use in application processes that operate at lower viscosity and / or lower temperature, which are typical processes of melt extrusion and / or fiber spinning processes. The elastomeric composition can be applied to an elastic zone to achieve a total addition level of from about 5 to about 200 g / m2, preferably from about 20 to about 150 g / m2, and more preferably from about 50 to about 100 g / m2 . A series of elastic zones may have open areas not covered by the elastomeric composition ranging from 5% to 90% of the total area of the region, preferably between 5 and 60% and more preferably between 20% up to 40% As will be recognized, the required open area will depend on the specific characteristics of the region in which the elastic zones are disposed. The selective deposition of the elastomeric compositions preferably uses less materials than those required by conventional lamination technology using films or sheets. The fibrous substrate, in combination with the selective deposition of the elastomeric composition, can deliver the resulting composite with a lower basis weight and a higher permeability than a laminate containing a fibrous web layer and a film or canvas layer. As will be recognized, the elastic zones described herein can also be used in combination with the elasticity characteristics described in the industry. (These elastic characteristics include, but are not limited to, an elasticated waist, an elasticated belt, an opening, a side panel, a leg fold or a fixation component, see below for a discussion of such features in the Description of the diaper components applicable to all embodiments of the present invention). As will be recognized, combining the three zones of the present invention with the elasticity characteristics of the industry, can provide benefits that no method could provide by itself alone. For example, an elastomeric film could be used to provide a first level of elastic resistance to an elasticity characteristic formed using an elastomeric, permeable, three-dimensional composite material as described in U.S. Pat. no. 6,303,208 and portions of the elasticity feature could further comprise elastic zones of the present invention to reinforce the elastic strength at predefined positions of the elasticity characteristic. Similar characteristics can also be obtained by replacing the elastomeric film with one or more elastomeric bands or fibers and thereby providing elastic zones to the present invention. With reference to Fig. 1, an absorbent article in the form of an open-style diaper or as a tape is described. It should be understood that while Figs. 1-3 describe a diaper, the present invention can also be incorporated into other absorbent articles that can be worn, such as catamenial and adult incontinence products, that encompass or circumvent at least a portion of the wearer's anatomy or that are in some way insured to the user. The diaper 10 has a central line 12 and a lateral line 14 as a frame of reference for this discussion. The diaper 10 can have a pair of opposite end edges 16 and 18, a pair of opposite side edges 20 and 22, a rear region of the waist 24, a vertical region a crotch region 28 arranged intermediate between the rear regions and front of the waist 26 and 24 respectively and a pair of regions of the legs 30 and 32. The exact size of these various regions varies according to the size of the diaper 20 but, in general terms, the crotch region 28, the front region of the waist 26 and the back region of the waist 24 represent equal portions of a third along the center line 12. The regions of the legs 30 and 32, generally represent the areas of a quarter through the diaper width 10 in the crotch region 28 in the same crotch region 28, represents the remaining two quarters or one half the width of the diaper 10. The diaper 10 may also have one or more openings or panels l laterals 34, 36, 38 and 40, generally arranged on the outer side of the lateral edges 20, 22 in the front of the region of the waist 26 and / or of the back region of the waist 24. In the diaper that is can close 10, at least one fixing element 42 disposed on one or more side panels 34 and 36 and adapted to secure them to at least a portion of the panels 38 and 40 that are longitudinally opposed to the side front panels, or a part of the outer surface of the front of the waist 26 or a component thereof. A companion fastener element 44 is shown in a configuration bent backward to expose the mechanical fasteners 46, which are shown as hooks for a Velero-type fastening systems, commercially available from 3M and Velero Industries. The fastener element 44 may be capable of joining material of the loop represented by a descent zone 27 located on the outer surface of the diaper 10. One or more of the regions 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42 or 44 may comprise an elastic zone or a set of elastic zones, as needed to provide the desired elasticity according to the present invention. In this way, the diaper 10 is configured to adapt to the anatomy of the user by applying and maintaining the coordination between the user's anatomy during use (ie, that must remain with the minimum loosening, achieving an adaptation and continuous adjustment). Any area of the diaper 10 may include an elastic zone or a set of elastic zones. The front region of the waist 26 and / or the rear area of the waist 24 and / or the side panels 34, 36, 38 and / or 40 preferably include at least one elastic zone of thermoplastic elastomer to accommodate a further range wide user dimensions (ie provide a wider range of settings) and / or provide sufficient tension around the user's waist. This provides the user's skin with sufficient normal strength to anchor the diaper 10 with respect to the user's anatomy, thereby providing a continuous fit.

Each elastic zone can have continuous or discontinuous properties in any direction, where the variable properties include chemical composition, elasticity, extensibility, maximum elongation, other stress / strain properties, vectors or angles, basic weight, geometry, dimensions, three-dimensional morphology, visual singularity and similar. An elastic zone may have continuous properties (eg, due to elastomeric composition, substrate material, treatment, etc.) and have relatively homogeneous properties. Alternatively, the elastic zones may have discontinuous properties due to the provision of inhomogeneous properties thereto. A set can contain elastic zones that have the same or different properties. The sets of elastic zones include numerous straight lines and curves or bands, rectilinear shapes, curved shapes, other regular or irregular geometric shapes and combinations thereof, which will be described in more detail below. In some presentations, at least a portion of at least one stretch zone may be visually distinct. Within a set, the individual elastic zones can vary in their properties, geometry, relative orientation, spacing or elasticity and extensibility. In some embodiments, at least a portion of at least one elastic zone is visually distinct. The elastic zones can be combined with other elastic materials, which can be stretched or not, such as films, wefts, filaments and the like, to form laminates. An example of a diaper frame comprising a set of elastic zones is the frame of the diaper 250 as shown in Fig. 2. The diaper frame may include a liquid impermeable bottom sheet and an outer cover constructed of non-slip materials. tissues. Other components of the frame may include, but are not shown here for clarity, show the set of elastic zones of the present invention. In one embodiment, a thermoplastic elastomer may be disposed on the material of a bottom sheet impervious to standard liquids, so as to create different sets of elastic zones in regions 252, 254, 256, 258 and 260. By way of example, a set in region 252, may comprise a first elastomeric thermoplastic composition while, sets in regions 254, 256, 258 and / or 260 may have a different composition or have the first composition arranged in a different configuration (thickness, width, design, etc.). In some cases, to improve the fit on a user, the properties of the different elastic zones are symmetric in the sets of the regions 252 and 260, the sets in the regions 254 and 258 also have similar properties while a set in the region 258 has a third type of elastic property. It should be understood, however, that this is not necessary and that the individual assemblies in regions 252, 254, 256, 258 and 260 may vary individually and widely in terms of elastic properties, size, shape and composition without deviating from the scope of the invention. invention. A pant may be preformed by any suitable technique including, but not limited to, joining the parts of the article using indexable and / or non-resettable unions (eg, seam, weld, adhesive, cohesive bond, fastener, etc.). A brief may be preformed anywhere along the circumference of the article (eg attached to the side, fastened at the front of the waist). A pant may be preformed by any suitable technique, including, but not limited to, joining parts of the article using readjustable and / or unadjusted unions (eg, seam, weld, adhesive or cohesive bond, fastener, etc.). ). A brief may be preformed anywhere along the circumference of the article (eg, secured laterally, secured to the front of the waist). While the term "briefs" is used here, it is also commonly referred to as "closed diapers", "pre-insured briefs", "training briefs", "diapers". Suitable pants are described in U.S. Pat. no. ,246,433, U.S. Pat. no. 5,569,234, U.S. Pat. no. 6,120,487, U.S. Pat. no. 6,120,489, U.S. Pat. no. 4,940,464, U.S. Pat. no. 5,092,861, U.S. series no. 10 / 171,249, called "Highly Flexible and Low Deformation Fastening Device", filed on June 13, 2002; U.S. patent no. 5,897,545, U.S. Pat. no. 5,957.908. The pant 370 may include elastic zones to impart the desired elastic properties so that it can be easily put on and maintain better fit and comfort. Similar to diaper 10, elastic zones may be included anywhere in panties 370. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of panties 370 and Fig. 4 shows panties 370 in a plan view. As shown herein, pants 370 have a longitudinal center line 360. a lateral centerline 362, a waist central region 364 (adjacent the front edge of the waist), a crotch region 366 and a part region. rear of the waist 368 (adjacent to the back edge of the waist). As can be seen more clearly in Figs. 5A-B, the panty protector 370 may include an absorbent assembly that includes a liquid impermeable upper canvas 372, a liquid impermeable lower canvas 374 and an absorbent core 376 disposed between the upper canvas 372 and the lower canvas 374. A outer cover 378 (which typically comprises a nonwoven) is disposed on the outer surface of the panty protector 370. Two pairs of side panels 380, 382 and 384, 386 are attached to the outer cover 378 in the front region of the waist 364 and the rear region of waist 368 which, in turn, is added to lower canvas 374 of the absorbent assembly so as to form a pair of leg openings and an opening for the wearer's waist. Preferably, the areas of the elastic zones are arranged in at least one of the side panels 380, 382, 384 and / or 386. The elastic zones of the pants 370 may also comprise the waist regions 364, 366, the barriers of the bends 388 and 390. For example, either or both of the leg elastics 392, 394, and / or the elastic barriers of the bends 396, 398 could comprise an elastomeric composition in which the composition is disposed on a substrate so as to form an elastic zone in one of the characteristics shown in Figures 5A and 5B. The belt structures (not shown here) may also comprise the elastic zones of the present invention. One such alternative structure comprises one of the openings and / or side panel and at least a portion of the waist functionality. In another alternative belt structure, a belt that surrounds the wearer's waist (i.e., a 360 degree belt) may be formed, for example, by depositing one or more laterally oriented elastic zones (or a set of them) adjacent to the edges. front and rear of the waist 365, 369 so as to form a tension band around the user's waist. Such elastic zones may also those shown in Figs. 7A, 7B and 8A-D. Reference is made to Figs. 6A-I in which several side panels 604, 606, 608, 610 are described for a closable diaper. Opened or glued with honeycomb adhesive 612. As will be recognized, the side panels 604, 606, 608, 610 each have an outer edge 634, 636, 638 and 640 arranged at a predefined angle (generally parallel) with respect to the line central 650. It should be understood that the side panels 604, 606, 608 and 610 as described herein are interchangeable with any of the side panels or diaper openings described in Figs. 1-4 of diapers 10 or 250 or pant 370 with any of the side panels 605, 607, 609, 611, 613, 615, 617, and 619 of Figs. 6B-6I. The arrows of the elastic zone 614, 616 are described to show examples of desirable force vectors of the side panels of the diapers. The size of a certain elastic zone in the diaper region 612 is dependent on the function of the elastic zone and the vectors 614, 616 of the desired tension / extension in which the given region of the diaper 612. Each elastic zone must be smaller or greater than the region of the diaper 612 in which it is originally disposed. A given elastic zone may also overlap other regions of the diaper 612. With reference to Figures 6B-6I, several elastic zones 618 of the side panel 605 may be configured as elastic lines or bands having widths of less than 2 mm and typically less than 1 mm The linear elastic zones 618 can also be configured as bands which, in general, have widths between 2 mm and about 40 mm and ratio between width and height ranging from 2: 1 to about 100: 1. The linear elastic zones 618 can also be arranged at an angle with respect to the lateral center line 651 (Figs 6B and 6F). Preferred angles are between 0 ± 70 °. The elastic areas that have a predominant lateral orientation are generally wider and have a greater modulus than those that have longitudinal orientation. The curved elastic zones 620 can be either concave or convex with respect to the longitudinal or lateral axes 650, 651 or both and can have larger radii of curvature than 1 mm, preferably greater than 10 mm and more preferably greater than 50 mm. The curvature may optionally vary in the length or "path" of the elastic zone 620. Typically, the thickness of the elastic zones 618 and / or 620 may be from about 0.2 mm to about 0.5 mm and the basis weight is in the order of about 20 g / m2 to about 300 g / m2. Fig. 4 is a plan view of the brief type diaper of Fig. 2; Also all elastic zones 618 and 629 have an elastomeric composition as described herein. Figures 6D-6I show elastic zones 622 applied to or formed as part of fastener element 624 to impart other elastic properties of the present invention.

Alternatively, one or more, but not all of the elastic zones 618, 620 may comprise an elastomeric composition that differs from the composition used for the remaining elastic zones 618, 620. For example, referring to Figs. 6B and 6C, certain elastic zones 618 which are longitudinally on the outside (i.e., near the end of the rear part of the waist 635) of the remaining elastic zones 618 may have an elastomeric composition with a greater modulus of elasticity, for provide a greater elastic resistance around the circumference of the user's waist. Alternatively, (Fig. 6B), the elastic zones 618 may comprise a first elastomeric composition and the elastic zones 620 may comprise a second elastomeric composition. Again, the elastic zones 618 are longitudinally on the outside of the elastic zones 620. Alternatively, a set of linear elastic zones 618 or curves 620 or both can have a spiral, superimposed or interlocked configuration, for example, a lattice assembly crossed. Suitable shapes of elastic zones (not shown) include rectangles, circles, ellipses, rhombuses, triangles, parallelograms, trapezoids, wedges or other sections of circles and ellipses and other polygons, other closed irregular shapes. A preferred embodiment of a set of elastic zones is shown in Fig. 61 where the side panel 619 contains a set of cross trusses 625, 627. As shown there, both trusses 625, 627 comprise a number of elastic zones 618 in a design in cross-framing where the elastic zones 618 have both a lateral orientation and a predominant longitudinal orientation. As recognized and described herein, the elastic zones 618 may also be at an angle of 0 ° or 90 ° with respect to the center lines. In a modality of the side panel 619 shown in Fig. 61, the assembly 625 has different mechanical properties from the assembly 627. In particular, the first assembly 625 has an available tension that the second assembly 625. As used herein, "tension available "is the tension with which there is an abrupt increase in the strength of elastic resistance in response to an applied elongation. Such a change normally occurs when the applied elongation reaches the point at which a significant portion of the elastic resistance force is provided by the substrate to the elastic zone. At applied elongations, a lower available tension than the elastic resistance force is practically provided to the elastic zone by the elastomeric composition. This difference in available effort is due to the fact that the assembly 627 must be able to stretch to a greater extent to adjust to the full range of motion of the user's legs. Also, the first set 625 has a different elastic resistance than the second set 627. Suitably, the set 625 has an elastic resistance to a 25% strain of between about 0.05 N / cm and 50 N / cm, preferably between about 0.1 N / cm and 40 N / cm, more preferably between about 1 N / cm and 30 N / cm. A given elastic zone may also overlap other regions of the diaper 612. With reference to Figures 7A and 7B, a diaper 730 similar to diaper 10 and having a longitudinal center line 738, a lateral center line 739, a rear waist end 735 and a front waist end 737 is shown where the waist and hip portions of the side panel 732, 733 preferably comprise different elastic zones 734 and 736, varying in angle and tension, as shown. Preferably, the side panel of the elastic zone 734 near the end of the rear waist 735 of the diaper 730 can be oriented at an angle of between about 0 to minus 50 degrees of the side axis 739, and more preferably around -5 degrees and about -40. degrees from the lateral axis 739. Preferably, the elastic zone 736 may be oriented at an angle of 0 up to more than 70 degrees from the lateral axis 739, more preferably around +20 degrees and about +60 degrees from the lateral axis 739 .A preferred side panel 732 of the elastic zone embodiment includes an elastic zone 734 oriented at about + 20 ° to + 50 ° from the lateral axis 739. In some preferred embodiments, at least one of the elastic zones of the side panel 736 it can be aligned with the elastics of the end of the outer fold of the leg 740, 742 to provide an effective stretch of the elastic of the fold of the leg, in this way to surround the user's leg with a combination of the elastic zones 736 and 740, 742 , shown in Fig. 7B That is, the outer elastics of the leg fold 740, 742 and the elastic zones of the side panel cooperate to provide a substantially continuous line of force to encircle the user's legs. In other preferred embodiments, at least one of the waist regions adjacent the end of the rear waist 735 or the front waist 737 is also provided as one or more waist elastic areas 744, 745, 746, 747. In such embodiments the elastic waist areas 744, 745, 746, 747 may be aligned with the elastic zones of the elastic zones of the openings 734 adjacent the end of the rear waist 735 so as to provide a substantially continuous line of force surrounding the user's waist Depending on the design of diaper 730, that line of force can follow the user's low-motion zone (see below) or be juxtaposed with another potion of the user's anatomy while surrounding the waist. Regardless of the specific construction, composition, or geometry, or the elastic properties of the side panel 732, the elastic areas 734 and 736 of the waist and hip portions must be capable of substantially independent action with respect to each other. Some embodiments may include an additional panel in an elastic zone (not shown) that functions as a transition between the leg and hip portions, i.e., a "transition zone". The transition zone can have different elastic properties (or even elasticity) in each leg or waist area and works to uncouple or separate the deformations caused by the leg and waist panels, allowing them to act independently without interaction between them. A given elastic zone may also overlap other regions of the diaper 612. With reference to Figures 8A-D, at least one set 850 of elastic zones 851 may be included in the waist region of diaper 830. The set 850 of Elastic zones 851 may have similar or variable degrees of elasticity or extensibility and may assume any geometry or orientation. For example, in FIG. 8A, the assembly 850 of the elastic zones 851 is located at the end of the waist 835 of the diaper 830 while FIG. 8B shows another embodiment in which the assembly 850 is offset from the end of the diaphragm. waist 835. It may be preferable that the assembly 850 is generally located in the lower rear part of the waist as shown in a partial side view of the user 852 in Fig. 8C. In this way, the maximum fit and comfort will be experienced by the user 852 raising the tension is applied by the article to the body of the user in or immediately on the convexity of the buttocks, contributing to the total anchoring capacity of the article (ie, its ability to resist loosening) In other words, the assembly 850 and the elastic zones 862, 864, 866, 868 and 870 (shown in Figure 8D) cooperate to maintain the diaper 830 in an optimal fit configuration with respect to to the 853 low motion area (that is, the line or area that connects the lumbar curve of the back over the hips to below the abdominal crease of a user's body 852) to maximize the user's performance. For a more detailed discussion of low motion areas see U.S. Pat. no. 5, 358,500. In some preferred embodiments, as shown in the plan view of diaper 830 in Fig. 8D, assembly 850 comprises one or more elastic zones 854 having highly localized elastic resistances (i.e., a "high tension" elastic zone 854). ) aligned with the end of the waist 835. The high tension elastic zones 854 may be adjacent to the waist end 835 or be disposed therein. Typically the high tension elastic zones 854 are disposed between about zero and 30 mm from the waist end 835 of the diaper 830. Preferably, the high tension elastic areas 854 are disposed less than mm from the end of the waist. Generally, a set 850 of high tension elastic zones 854 may correspond to an area 856 in the body of the user 52 immediately above the upper curvature of the buttocks 858 where the high voltage elastic zone 854 functions to provide additional anchoring capacity. to diaper 830 applying a normal force to the "shelf" created by the buttocks 858. High tension elastic zones 854 further support the waist end 835 of the diaper 830 against the back of the user 860 preventing the formation of spaces. In embodiments comprising a set 850 of elastic zones 854 at or near the end of waist 935 and extending through multiple regions of the posterior waist and crotch of the article. The remaining area of the waist end 835 may have a low elastic resistance, may be primarily extensible or may comprise areas with some of the properties. In any case, this waist end area 835 (i.e., the area that does not include the elastic zones 850 or 854) can be a low voltage zone. Referring again to Fig. 8D, the elastic zones 862 may be substantially parallel to the nearest edge 864 and 866 of the side panels 832 and 833 respectively. Optionally, the transition elastic zones 868 and 870 may be disposed in intermediate elastic zones 854 and 868, 870. Elastic zone 854 may provide a primary anchoring function and elastic zones 862, 868 and 870 may provide a dynamic function of accommodation to the movement of the leg. While the elastic zones 854, 868 and 870 all offer elastic resistance, the present invention allows tailored strengths in degree and direction to meet the different needs of the anchoring and movement-accommodating functions. With reference to Fig. 8C the region covering the buttocks of a user 858 comprises at least one extensible elastic zone to provide adequate coverage thereof, conform to the shape of user 852, and relieve stresses in the transition zone. between the crotch as well as at the waist end 835 and the diaper 830 (Figs 8 A, B and D) as well as between the legs of the user 852. As described above, the side panels 832 and 833 may comprise different zones elastic 854, 862, 868 and 870 having different functions and can be single elastic elements having different properties throughout the elastic zone or having physical delineations between the elastic areas 854, 862, 868 and 870 such as grooves, holes or other deformations . However, the elastic zones 854 and 862 comprise stretchable elements, or sets of stretchable elements or sets of stretchable elements having different properties, geometry, and / or dimensions between each. Typically, the elastic zones 854 exhibit an elastic strength of at least 0.05 N / cm when they receive an elongation of 25%. Preferably, the elastic zone 864 has an elastic resistance of between about 0.05 N / cm and about 50 N / cm when it suffers. an elongation of 25%, more preferably between 0.1 N / cm and about 40 N / cm and more preferably still between 1 N / cm and about 30 N / cm. Preferably, the elastic zones 854 undergo less than 40% relaxation force and less than 15% fixed. Typically, the elastic zones 854 will have a maximum elongation of at least 25%, preferably between 50 and 300%. Typically, the elastic zones 862 show an elastic strength of at least 0.05 N / m with 25% elongation. Preferably, the elastic zones 862 show an elastic resistance of between 0.1 N / cm and 8 N / cm when it undergoes an elongation of 25%. Preferably, the elastic zones 862 undergo less than 40% of the relaxation force and less than 15 % Fixing. Typically, the elastic zones 862 can have a maximum elongation of at least 25%, preferably between 50% and 200%. Additionally, the elastic zones 868 and 870 may have less resistance to elongation than each elastic zone at a given tension. Typically, the elastic resistance ratio of the elastic zone 854 to the elastic zone 868 or 870 is at least 1.25: 1, preferably at least 1.5: 1 and more preferably between 2.0: 1 and 6.0: 1. Irrespective of the elastic properties of the individual elastic zones 854, 862, 68 and 870, the overall tension of the side panels 832 and 833 when stretched by 25% is preferably less than 20 N, and the relaxation force is less than 40% With reference to Fig. 9, which shows the diaper 910, describes the front region of the waist 926 may comprise at least one elastic zone 972. The function of the elastic zone 972 is to dynamically accommodate the contraction and expansion cycles of the abdomen of the user when the user moves and / or changes position, preventing the front of the waist from loosening. The elastic zone 972 is preferably essentially aligned with the front end of the waist 918 of the diaper 910. In the versions that are closing the diaper 910, including a down support zone 927 disposed at or near the front waist 918, the downward area may have a configuration having a concavity 928 to the front waist 918 of the diaper 910. In these embodiments, the elastic zone 972 may extend within the concavity of the downhill area 928, as shown in Figure 9. While the buttock region 974 located in the region of the rear waist, close to the crotch region 976, as shown in FIG. shows the diaper 910 may comprise both elastic and extensible portions or a combination of both, in the preferred embodiments the buttock region 974 may be provided with a thermoplastic elastomeric pattern so as to provide a low level of elastic resistance to an elastic zone in it, making the buttock region 974 conform better to the user's anatomy so as to accommodate the greater circumference of the wearer (i.e., the buttocks), including the volume of the absorbent core 950, enabling the region of buttocks 974 have a lower tension than region 916 of the rear waist. The region of the buttocks 974 can have elastic zones with extensibility that allows an easier geometric transition from the narrow crotch region 976 between the legs of the wearer to the side panels 934 and 936, which may have elastic zones similar to those described in Figs. 9D for anchoring. The region of the buttocks 974 may preferably be longer than the waist end region 916 to accommodate the shape of the user's anatomy. With reference to Fig. 10, in another embodiment, the diaper 1030 is shown in which an elastic zone 1078 in the waist region may preferably be aligned with the side panels 1032 and 1033 and / or the fasteners 1080 and 1082, arranged on the side panels, to create a line of tension around the waist, to promote the conformation of a sustained fit. As shown in Figure 10, the elastic zone 1078 preferably at least overlaps one of the two imaginary lines 1084 and 1086 that longitudinally connect the outer edges 1092, 1094 of the fasteners 1082. With reference to Fig. 11, a set 1104 of elastic zones is shown in the diaper 110 at the front of the crotch region 1128, the front waist region 1126 encompassing the elastic zones comprising the set 1104 may be primarily parallel to the longitudinal centerline 1112 of the diaper 1110 allowing a better fit in the front of the crotch region 1128 providing an elastic resistance along the center line 1112 as signaled by the arrow 1106. The assembly 1104 must have a low elastic resistance so as not to pull the front of diaper 1110 downwards, resulting in loosening. Also the assembly 1104 should have a low stress, so that it presents a sturdy wall after subjected to a small effort in the machine direction for improved coverage in the front area of the waist. Typically, assembly 1104 provides an elastic strength at 25% tension between about 0.005 N / cm and about 5 N / cm, preferably between about 0.01 N / cm to about 2 N / cm. In certain embodiments the elastic strength ranges from about 0.1 N / cm to about 1 N / cm. The available tension of the assembly 1104 in the machine direction is less than about 100%, preferably less than 50%, and more preferably less than about 25%. For the entire diaper, the maximum length in the machine direction at a load of 5 N is less than about 20 cm, preferably less than about 10 cm, and more preferably less than about 5 cm.

Preferably, the area of greatest extensibility is substantially aligned with and superimposed on the longitudinal central axis 1112. In another embodiment, the assembly 1104 can be replaced by a single elastic zone (not shown) that provides equivalent elastic resistance. Preferably, the area of greatest extensibility is substantially aligned with and superimposed on the longitudinal central axis 1112. In another embodiment, the assembly 1104 can be replaced by a single elastic zone (not shown) that provides equivalent elastic resistance. Alternatively, the assembly 1104 may also comprise exterior lateral elastic zones at an angle to the longitudinal central axis 112 and divergent towards the front corners of the diaper 1110, as indicated by arrows 1108 and 1109 in Figure 11. These lines or tension arcs they may be primarily elastic in a manner of a suitable suspension for the absorbent core and the user's waist maintained there "connecting" those loads to the anchor areas of the article by means of suitable lines, or tension "paths". Alternatively, those "load distribution elements" can include lines, arcs, bands or other inextensible geometric regions in the surrounding areas of the crotch region 1128 and the front region of the waist 1126 and can be extended to accommodate when the The user gets up, while the inextensible external elements to distribute the loads provide support for the waste load. With reference to Fig. 12, another embodiment, the diaper 1210 is shown, wherein the leg regions 1230 may comprise the elastic zones.

Preferably, the elastic zones 1212 and 1214 are substantially parallel to the longitudinal centerline 1205 and are highly elastic. Alternatively, the elastic zones 1212 and 1214 may also be curvilinear or form an angle with the center line 1205. Portions of the leg regions 1232 may comprise one or more additional extensible elastic zones 1216 and 1218 that are oriented at an angle to the longitudinal center line 1205 of diaper 1210. Typically, elastic areas 1216 and 1218 may be at an angle of 45 degrees to about 90 degrees and, preferably at an angle between 45 to 60 degrees, from longitudinal center line 1205. In another embodiment Further to the present invention, the elastic zones described herein can also be provided to a top canvas. For example, diaper 1310 is shown in Fig. 13. Diaper 1310 comprises a top canvas 1324, a bottom sheet 1326 and a core 1328 therebetween. In the upper canvas 1324 the opening 1330 having a periphery 1340 is also provided. As can be seen in Fig. 13, the upper canvas 1324 further has a pair of laterally opposed elastic zones 1343, 1344, which also comprise a portion of the periphery 1340. The elastic zones 1343, 1344 extend from the front region of the waist 1336 to the crotch region 1337 and to the back region of the waist 1338. The elastic zones 1343, 1344 provide an elastic resistance which makes that the diaper 1310 takes the configuration of a cup in the relaxed state shown in Fig. 13. This elastic resistance helps to ensure desirable contact between the upper canvas 1324 and the wearer's body. In the preferred embodiment, shown in FIG. 13, this contact of the body helps ensure that the opening 1330 and the upper canvas 1326 combine to create an anal fold with tolerable buckling, which helps to isolate body waste from contact with the user's body. Such folds are described in greater detail in the copending US patent. Publication no. 2004/0193134 A1 named "Articles with Cuffs" ("Articles with Cuffs") filed in the name of Mueller, et al., Published on September 30, 2004.

Description of Diaper Components Applicable to Modalities of the Present Invention All the modalities of Figs. 1-13 have diaper components that can use one or more of the materials, designs, and methods of the set described hereinafter without departing from the scope of the present invention. While any of the components of the articles can be grouped into a variety of well-known configurations, examples of the diaper configurations are generally described in U.S. Pat. no. 3,860,003; U.S. patent no. 5,151, 092; and U.S. patent no. 5,221, 274; and U.S. patent no. 5,554,145; U.S. patent no. 5,569,234; U.S. patent no. 5,580,411; and U.S. patent no. 6,004,306.

Illustrative permeable materials may include materials such as woven fabric webs, webs of non-woven webs, composite materials such as webs of non-woven webs with coating film, microporous films such as those made by Mitsui Toatsu Co. of Japan, with the designation ESPOIR NO and by Exxon Chemical Co., of Bay City, TX, under the designation EXXAIRE, and monolithic films such as those manufactured by Clopay Corporation, Cincinnati, OH, under the name HYTREL mixes P18-3097. Some permeable composite materials are described in greater detail in U.S. Pat. no. 6,187,696; U.S. patent no. 5,938,648; no. 5,865,823; and U.S. patent no. 5,571, 096. The article may include a structural network of elastic film that is an extensible material that exhibits an elastic behavior in the direction of elongation without the need for using elastic aggregate materials and is described in more detail in U.S. Pat. no. 5,518,801. In alternative embodiments, the lower canvases may comprise elastomeric films, foams, strands or combinations of these or other suitable materials with nonwovens or synthetic films. Examples of absorbent structures for use as an absorbent core are described in U.S. Pat. no. 4,610,678; U.S. patent no. 4,673,402; U.S. Patent No. 4,834,735; U.S. Patent No. 4,888,231; U.S. Patent No. 5,137,537; U.S. Patent No. ,147,345; U.S. Patent No. 5,342,338; U.S. Patent No. 5,260,345; U.S. Patent No. 5,387,207; and U.S. Patent No. 5,625,222. The underlying absorbent and nonabsorbent layers are described in European patent application no. EP 0 847 738 A1 and U.S. Pat. no. 5,941,864.

In addition, the underlying layer, or any part of it, may include, or be reverted with, a lotion or other known substance to add, highlight or change the behavior or other characteristics of the element. Some examples of surface fastening systems are disclosed in U.S. Pat. no. 3,848,594; U.S. patent no. B1 4,662,875; U.S. patent no. 4,846,815; U.S. patent no. 4,894,060; U.S. patent no. 4,946,527; the here before given as a reference patent of the USA. no. 5,151, 092; and U.S. patent no. 5,221, 274. An example of an interlocking fastening system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. no. 6,432,098. The fastening system may also provide a means for holding the article in a disposal configuration, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. no. 4,963,140; includes primary and secondary fastening systems, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. no. 4,699,622; refers to reducing the displacement of the overlapping portions to improve the fit, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. no. 5,242,436; means resisting the formation of cavities in the belly of user no. ,499,978 in U.S. Pat. no. 5,507,736 and in U.S. Pat. num. 5,591, 152. Suitable training diapers and brief-type diapers are disclosed in U.S. Pat. no. 5,246,433; no. 5,569,234; no. 6,120,487; no. 6,120,489; no. 4,940,464; and U.S. patent no. 5,092,861. Examples of diapers with elasticized side panels as disclosed in U.S. Pat. no. 4,857,067; U.S. Patent No. 4,381, 781; U.S. Patent No. 4,938,753; The patent referred to herein is a US patent. no. 5,151,092; U.S. patent no. 5,221,274; U.S. patent no. 5,669,897; U.S. patent no. 6,004,306, and the aforementioned U.S. Pat. no. 6,300,208. U.S. Pat. no. 3,860,003 discloses a disposable diaper that provides a collapsible leg opening having a side flap and one or more elastic members to provide an elasticated leg fold (a plug fold). U.S. Pat. num. 4, 808,178 and 4,909,803 describe disposable diapers that have "stopped" elasticated fins (barrier folds), which improve the containment of the leg regions. U.S. Pat. num. 4,695,278 and 4,795,454 describe disposable diapers with double folds, including gusset folds and barrier folds. Modalities of the present invention may also include pockets for receiving and containing debris, separators that provide voids for waste, barriers to limit the movement of debris in the article, compartments or gaps that accept and contain waste or combinations of them. Examples of pockets and spacers for use in absorbent products are described in U.S. Pat. no. 5,514,121; U.S. patent no. 5,171,236; U.S. patent no. ,397,318; U.S. patent no. 5,540,671; U.S. patent no. 6,168,584; U.S. patent no. 5,306,266; and U.S. patent no. 5,997,520. Examples of compartments or voids are disclosed in U.S. Pat. no. 4,968,312; U.S. patent no. 4,990,147; U.S. patent no. 5,062,840; and U.S. patent no. 5,269,755. Examples of suitable transverse barriers are described in U.S. Pat. no. 5,554,142; U.S. patent no. 6,010,490; and U.S. patent no. 5,653,703. Examples of other structures especially suitable for handling low viscosity beams are disclosed in U.S. Pat. num. 5,941, 864; 5,977,430 and 6,013,063. The elasticized side panels will normally stretch and stretch during this operation in order to conform to the size and shape of the user. The fastening elements are then used by the caregiver to join the back and front parts of the waist so as to surround the user's waist. The elasticized side panels will be extended and tensioned during this operation in order to conform to the dimensions and shape of the user. A brief like the one shown in Fig. 3, it can be placed in its position on the user by inserting the legs thereof into the leg openings and sliding the shorts into position around the user's lower torso.

TEST METHODS Hysteresis test to check the elastic properties of the material General View This test measures: a) elastic resistance (load at 25% stretch); relaxation force and c) fixed percentage of an individual elastic zone, or of a set of elastic zones The elastic zones can be both crossed and non-crossed. Elastic uncrossed areas can be both parallel and non-parallel. Ideally, the dimension of the sample should be 2.54 cm wide by 5.08 cm long, the direction of the stretch should be the longest dimension.

In addition, ideally the length of the gauge should be 2.54 cm. Due to the variety of patterns that stretching can have, it is necessary to define different preparation procedures for different kinds of elastic zones. Once the sample is prepared, it is stretched according to a predefined regime to provide data for an adequate determination.

Tension Meter Apparatus: A commercial strain gauge is suitable for measuring a constant rate of extension from Instron Engineering Corp., Canton, MA USA. or from SINTECH-MTS Systems Corporation, Eden Prairie, MN USA. (or a comparable meter). An interface is established between the instrument and a computer to control the speed of the test and other parameters and to collect, calculate and report the data. Load cell Select the clamps and load cells suitable for the test; the clamps should be wide enough to fit the sample; 2.54 cm clamps are typically used; the load cell is chosen in such a way that the expected tensile response of the evaluated sample is between 25% and 75% of the capacity of the load cells or the load range used, typically a 1 kN load cell is used; Sample cutter The specific cutter is defined by the desired width of the sample. There are suitable cutters available at Thwing-Albert Instrument Co. of Philadelphia, PA. The JDC 1-10 model is suitable for a 2.54 cm wide sample.

Preparation of the sample (i) Preparation of samples for Linear Elastic Zones. Not intersected. Cut a 2.54 cm wide by 5.08 cm long sample from an individual elastic zone. If an individual elastic zone is smaller than those dimensions, the sample should encompass the entire elastic zone. Orient the sample in the clamps to ensure that the sample is stretched in the longitudinal direction of the elastic zone. If the strength of an individual elastic zone is too small to measure it in the strain gauge, several samples of identical elastic zones, taken from various products and the data can be standardized for an individual elastic zone can be collectively stretched between the jaws of the strain gauge. In a special case, when all the elastic zones are separated and parallel with each other uniformly and also have all the same dimensions and basic weight of elastomer, a 2.54 cm sample of several elastic zones can be tested in a single test. It can then be normalized the load to an individual elastic zone dividing the total force by the amount of elastic zones. (ii) Preparation of samples for non-linear elastic areas, which are not cut. The dimensions of the sample are 6.3 mm wide x 5.08 cm long. The length is measured along the curved path. The width of the sample is small, so that the curved elastic zone can be approximated to a linear elastic zone. The length of the gauge in the tension gauge is fixed at 2.54 cm. As mentioned before, if it were not possible to obtain a sample with the dimensions above, then the dimensions of the sample can be decreased to the largest possible length and the length of the calibrated accordingly. (ü) Preparation of samples for a set of intersecting elastic zones. The test sample is 2.54 cm wide x 5.08 cm long. If the set is smaller than these dimensions, the sample should cover the whole set. You have to stretch the set in a direction close to the direction of maximum stretch Generally this can be determined by pulling it in several directions (eg, CD, MD and 45 degrees to CD). If that address is not easily discernible, the default stretch direction is the cross direction of the machine.

Method Hysteresis is measured under standard laboratory conditions (25 ° C ± 2 ° C and relative humidity 50% ± 2.0%). The procedure for determining the hysteresis of an elastomeric member requires the following steps: 1. Calibrate the apparatus for testing according to the manufacturer's instructions. 2. Set the length of the measuring device to 2.54 cm or as appropriate for the sample to be tested, set the preload clearance to 0.05 N. 3. Place the sample on the flat surface of the jaws so that the centerline The length of the sample is substantially parallel to the direction of the length of the gauge. 4. Set the crosshead speed at a constant speed of 25.4 cm / min. 5. Start the movement of the crosshead, the test device begins to simultaneously record the load and effort data. The hysteresis test specifically requires the following steps: a) Lengthen the sample to 25% of the effort, at a constant speed of 25.4 cm / min; record the force at 25% elongation, b) allow the sample to remain at this tension for 2 minutes; record strength at the beginning and end of the 2-minute period; c) Return the sample to 0% tension at a constant rate of 25.4 cm / min; d) the sample remains in this deformation for 1 minute; and e) the sample is elongated at a load of 0.1 N at a constant speed of 5.08 cm / min; the formation at 0.1 N is recorded (that is, a force sufficient to remove the looseness but sufficient to deliver, at most, an insubstantial stretch to the sample).

Calculations and reports submitted 1. From the data collected in stage 5 (a), the load at 25% of the effort is reported as the elastic resistance of the material. 2. With the data collected in step 5 (b), the relaxation force is determined with the load at the beginning and at the end of the 2 minute retention time using the following formula: o / t > 1 • • _ * A 4. • + • + [(Initial charge) - ÍLoad in time, t) l _ % Stress relaxation at time t = - - - - - - x 100 Initial load 3. From the data collected in step 5 (e), the set% is calculated using the following formula: Effort registered in 5 (e) Percentage of deformation = -1 xlOO Length of gauge 4. Report the average results of the three samples replicated for each material tested.

Available tension This is the intention to determine the available effort in a sample The Available Tension is the point where there is an inflection in the force-elongation curve, beyond which point there is a rapid increase in the force necessary to lengthen further the sample. If that address is not easily discernible, the default stretch direction is the cross direction of the machine.

Method 1. The samples are prepared according to the Hysteresis Test described above. 2. Repeat steps 1-4 of the Hysteresis Test. 3. Start the crosshead movement The test instrument begins to simultaneously record the load versus strain data (percentage of elongation). 4. Continue the elongation of the sample until: a) The sample breaks; or b) the limit strength of the load cell is reached. 5. Graph the force / elongation data to create a curve similar to that in Fig. 14. 6. Extrapolate the parts of steps 1 and 2 as shown to determine the available effort. 7. Report the average results of three samples for each material tested. All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the Invention are incorporated, in the pertinent part, as reference herein. The mention of any document should not be construed as an admission that it corresponds to a prior industry with respect to the present invention. While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It has been intended, therefore, to cover all the changes and modifications within the scope of the invention in the appended claims.

Claims (9)

1. An absorbent article; the absorbent article has a waist region, a crotch region, a longitudinal center line and a lateral center line; the absorbent article comprises at least one elastic zone; characterized in that the elastic zone comprises a first substrate having a first elastomeric thermoplastic composition disposed thereon in a predetermined geometric design defining the elastic zone. An absorbent article according to claim 1, further characterized in that the elastic zone comprises at least a part of a feature selected from a group comprising an ear, a side panel, a leg fold, a fixation component and combinations of these, the feature is preferably selected from the group comprising ears and side panels and combinations thereof. An absorbent article according to claim 2, further characterized in that two of the mentioned features are in contiguous relationship and the elastic zone comprises at least a part of each of the contiguous features; the contiguous features are selected from one of the following pairs: a) The waist and ear feature and b) the leg and ear fold 4. An absorbent article according to any of the preceding claims, the elastic zone has a property selected from the group comprising different width dimensions between the individual elastic zones, different thickness dimensions between the individual elastic zones, different separations between the individual elastic zones, different mechanical properties between the individual elastic zones, different visual appearance and different permeability between the elastic zones. individual elastic zones, where when at least one of the properties at each of the two points is measured along a line in a selected direction from the parallel to the longitudinal centerline and parallel to the lateral centerline, there is a variation in the value of the property. An absorbent article according to claim 4, further characterized in that the variation is defined as the absolute value of the measurement of the property at the first point, minus the value of the property at the second point divided by the value of the property at the first point and the variation is greater than about 0.1 6. An absorbent article according to claim 4 or 5, further characterized in that there is also a variation in at least one of the properties in both selected directions; the variation is defined as the absolute value of the measurement of the property at a first point minus the value of the property at a second point along a line parallel to the longitudinal centerline divided by the value of the property in the aforementioned First point. An absorbent article according to any of the preceding claims, further characterized in that the elastic zone is used in combination with an elastic element; the elastic element is selected from the group comprising an elastomeric film, an elastomeric strand and an elastomeric fiber. The absorbent article according to any of the preceding claims, further characterized in that the absorbent article comprises a second elastic zone, wherein the first elastic zone differs from the second elastic zone in a characteristic selected from the group comprising different widths between the different individual elastic zones, different thicknesses between the individual elastic zones, different separations between the individual elastic zones, different mechanical properties between the individual elastic zones, different visual appearance and different permeability between the individual elastic zones. 9. An absorbent article according to claim 8, further characterized in that the different elastic zones overlap at least partially.