MXPA98008307A - Reinforced monofilament clamping system for absorbent articles and manufacture methods - Google Patents

Abstract

A fastening system for use with a garment incorporates elastomeric strip members comprising an integral monofilament yarn for transverse reinforcement and stability. The buttons are adapted to be detachably attached to the garment and are attached to the strip member. The virtually continuous end seals are contiguous with the end edges of each strip member and have a width dimension at least as large as an effective monofilament wire width. The cloth threads of the strip members are attached to each other at the end seals to virtually immobilize the monofilament yarn. The particular characteristics contain the monofilament yarn in a manner that reduces the tendency of the ends of the strip members to curl during the u

Description

REINFORCED MONOFI AMENTO SUSPENSION SYSTEM FOR ABSORBENT ITEMS AND MANUFACTURING METHOD BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an improved fastening system for a garment. More particularly, the invention relates to an improved elastic strip fastening system with button fasteners incorporating a monofilament reinforcing yarn or cord for improved resistance to twisting or twisting of the goods and to end crimping. The invention also relates to absorbent articles and methods for making such fastening systems.

Garments such as absorbent articles come in a variety of forms, which is a result of having many different types of users and conditions of use. Each garment shape incorporates a specifically designed compatible fastening system. Fastening systems for absorbent articles, by way of illustration, have included adhesive tapes, garment adhesives, and body adhesives; mechanical hook and loop type fasteners, push-type fasteners; stretchable side panels; and similar.

Many of these fastening systems have been improved in recent years as a result of having undergone continually intensive development efforts. In complete contraéiste, however, the fastening system of elastic strap and button fastener has received very little attention since its first use to date. This form of restraint system, which is especially common for incontinence undergarments for adults, has had great permanence in the field but so far has not been improved similarly as have other characteristics of the product. As a result of the improvements in absorbency, packing, development of materials and the like, the fastening system of button fastener and elastic strip has become a significant factor in the user's dissatisfaction with the fit and comfort of the garment.

Therefore, what is needed and required in the art is an improved garment fastening system that uses button and elastic band fasteners and that improves the fit of the garment and the comfort of the wearer.

SYNTHESIS OF THE INVENTION In response to the deficiencies discussed in the prior art, push fasteners and elastic straps have been developed including a new fastening system. The fastening system is suitable for use on garments such as absorbent articles and improves both the fit of the product and the user's comfort.

The evaluation of the restraining systems with the elastic strips has indicated to the applicants that the relatively wider elastic strips improve the notch or fit of the product by reducing the bagging of the garments and increasing the comfort, safety, protection in against runoff relative to narrower elastic strips. Applicants have also recognized, however, that the increased strip width tends to directly increase the degree to which the side edges of the strip tend to coil, twist and tie when the elastic is stretched. This problem is attributable to the use of a button or other fastener held at the tip, because the lines of force when the elastic strip is stretched tend to be directed towards the grip location, and the sides of the strip tend to bend around an axis defined by the lines of force.

As can be appreciated, having the side edges of the elastic strip rolled and twisted can be very uncomfortable and can lead to skin irritation due to localized pressure of the strip. In addition, the rolling of the edges of the strip can also be detrimental to the notch of the garment and lead to a sagging and insecurity. Applicants have discovered that merely increasing the tension of the strip in an attempt to improve the fit and reduce the bagging is not a desirable option, because the higher stresses merely increase the tendency of the edges of the strip to roll and twist and also decrease the comfort of the user by the pressure located in a small area.

Therefore, even when the applicants have recognized the benefits that can be gained by wider elastic strips, applicants have also discovered the performance characteristics which, in addition to the increased product cost present obstacles to obtain an improved notch and a comfort with a fastening system using elastic strips and buttons.

The fastening systems of the present invention overcome the aforementioned obstacles and allow the use of elastic strips with buttons or other tip contact fasteners. The fastening systems of the present invention incorporate an elastomeric strip member comprising an integral monofilament yarn or cord which provides a reinforcement in the width direction and therefore a stability to the strip. In particular, the integral monofilament yarn or rope prevents the lines of force created by the lengthening of the elastic strip from causing the side edges of the strip to curl and twist. In addition, the monofilament yarn is contained within the strip member in a manner that reduces the tendency of the end of the strip to curl and minimizes the potential for skin irritation.

In one aspect, the present invention relates to a fastening system for use with a garment. The fastening system includes an elastomeric strip member having longitudinal and transverse axes, the edges of opposite first and second longitudinal ends, the opposite side edges extending between the end edges, a first end region contiguous with the first edge end and a second end region contiguous with the second end edge. The elastomeric strip member is formed of a fabric structure comprising a plurality of fabric yarns and a monofilament yarn that is positioned transversely within the fabric structure. A button adapted for a detachable fastener to the garment is attached to the strip member in the first end region and the second end of the strip member can be attached to the garment. The elastomeric strip member is formed of a fabric structure comprising a plurality of fabric yarns and a monofilament yarn that is positioned transversely within the fabric structure. A button adapted for a detachable fastener to the garment is attached to the strip member in the first end region and the second end of the strip member can be attached to the garment. The strip member also includes an end seal adjacent the first end edge of the strip member. The end seal has a width dimension at least as large as an effective width of the monofilament cord or thread, and the end seal is substantially continuous across the width dimension. The fabric yarns are attached to each other in the outer seal and the monofilament yarn is substantially immobilized in the end seal.

In another aspect the invention relates to a fastening system having an elastomeric strip member and the first and second buttons attached to the strip member in the respective first and second end regions. The elastomeric strip member is formed of a fabric structure that includes a plurality of fabric yarns and a monofilament yarn positioned transversely within the fabric structure. The strip member also includes an end seal contiguous with each of the first and second end edges of the strip member. Each end seal has a width dimension at least as large as an effective width of the filament yarn and is substantially continuous across the width dimension. The fabric yarns are attached to each other at each end seal, and the monofilament yarn is substantially immobilized at each end seal. Several features of the invention are believed to contribute to reducing the extent to which the ends of the strip members curl under use. For example, in the particular embodiments of the invention, the end seals are positioned longitudinally of the places where the buttons are fastened by spacings of no more than about 10 millimeters and desirably from 0 to 6 millimeters. In other embodiments, the length dimension of the end seals is greater than 3 mm. and particularly of at least about 10 mm. In addition, the end seals in the particular embodiments have a deflection resistance value of at least about 200 grams.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to an absorbent article that includes a garment having the first and second waist regions and an intermediate section which interconnects the waist region. The garment, which defines a plurality of button holes in the first and second waist regions, is formed of a liquid impermeable moisture barrier and of an absorbent assembly placed on the moisture barrier, and the lining on the side to the permeable body is the liquid attached to the moisture barrier and having the absorbent assembly between the side-to-body lining and the moisture barrier in the form of a sandwich. The absorbent article also includes a pair of elastomeric strip members. Each of the strip members has the longitudinal and transverse axes, the opposite first and second longitudinal end edges, the opposite side edges extending between the end edges, a strip width defined between the side edges, a first region of end contiguous to the first end edge, a second end region contiguous with the second end edge and an intermediate central region and interconnecting the first and second end regions. Each elastomeric strip member that is formed of a fabric structure includes a plurality of fabric yarns and a monofilament yarn positioned transversely within the fabric structure. The first and second buttons that are adapted for releasable fastening in the button holes are attached to each of the strip members in the respective first and second end regions. Each of the strip members also includes an end seal adjacent each of the first and second end edges. Each of the end seals has a width dimension at least as large as an effective width of the monofilament yarn and is substantially continuous across the width dimension. The fabric yarns are attached to each other at each end seal and the monofilament yarn is substantially immobilized at each end seal.

Applicants have discovered that absorbent articles incorporating the present fastening system tend to stay in position and be more comfortable than current commercial products. Stabilization of the elastic strips provided by the monofilament yarn minimizes or even eliminates the tendency of the side edges of the strips to be rolled or twisted between the buttons. As a result, the strips tend to be extremely comfortable. The manner in which the monofilament yarn is contained within the strip members can reduce the tendency of the ends of the strip to curl. In addition, the strips can be placed under greater stresses without tending to be tied and twisted, and the higher tensions also improve the notch and reduce the bagging of the garment. The applicants have determined that user comfort is improved with the strip members having a width dimension of at least about 25 mm, and more particularly of at least about 30 mm. for improved performance.

In still another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for making a strip member. The method comprises the steps of providing a continuous fabric of elastomeric strip material comprising a fabric structure and a monofilament yarn positioned transversely within the fabric structure in a sinusoidal shape, treating the discrete regions of the continuous fabric to form a plurality of joined areas where the fabric structure is itself unit to make the monofilament yarn, each bonding area has a length of at least 6 m; transversely cutting the continuous fabric through the joined areas to form a plurality of strip members, each strip member having the opposite end edges with a part of the joint area defining an end seal adjacent to each end edge, each End seal has a length of at least 3 mm. , and a value of resistance to deflection of more than 200 grams; and join a couple of buttons on each strip member.

Numerous advantages and features of the present invention will be apparent from the following description. In the description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which illustrate the preferred embodiments of the invention. Such embodiments do not represent the full scope of the invention. The reference therefore should be made to the claims given herein to interpret the full scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 representatively shows a perspective view of an absorbent article according to the present invention, with portions cut away for purposes of illustration.

Figure 2 representatively shows an enlarged perspective view of one of the two strip members shown in Figure 1.

Figure 3 representatively shows an enlarged sectional view taken generally from the plane of line 3-3 of Figure 2.

Fig. 4 representatively shows a front plan view of a test apparatus for determining a deflection resistance value for a specimen taken from one of the two strip members shown in Fig. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITIES With reference to Figures 1 and 2, an absorbent article formed according to the invention is shown for purposes of illustration, such as a disposable adult incontinence garment 20 which is held in position around a wearer by a system of fastener comprising a pair of strip members 22. As used herein, the term "disposable" includes being disposable after use and not attempting to be washed and reused. The undergarment 20 is shown in Figure 1 in an undrawn or relaxed condition, with the strip members 22 only partially attached to the undergarment. The invention may also be involved in other types of garments such as other disposable absorbent articles, reusable absorbent articles or the like.

The illustrated undergarment 20 has the opposite front and rear longitudinal end edges 24 and 26, and the longitudinal side edges 28 extending between the longitudinal end edges. The undergarment 20 includes the first waist or front region 30, a second waist region or back region 32, an intermediate crotch region 34 positioned between and interconnecting the front and back waist regions. The outer edges of the undergarment 20 define a periphery 36 having a generally straight end and the side edges 24, 26 and 28, although the edges may optionally be curvilinear and contoured.

The front waist region 30 is contiguous with the front end edge 24 and extends longitudinally inwardly thereof towards the transverse centerline of the undergarment 20. The rear waist region 32 is contiguous with the rear end edge 26 and is extends longitudinally inward from it towards the transverse centerline. The waist regions 30 and 32 comprise the tops of the undergarment 20 which, when worn, completely or partially cover or surround the waist or mid-lower torso of the wearer. The intermediate crotch region 34 comprises that part of the undergarment 20, which when worn, is placed between the legs of the wearer and covers the lower torso of the wearer. Thus, the crotch region 34 is the area where urine insults typically occur in the undergarment or other disposable absorbent article.

The undergarment 20 includes a moisture barrier virtually liquid-impermeable 40. An absorbent assembly 42 positioned over the moisture barrier and a substantially liquid-permeable body-side liner 44 attached to the moisture barrier to have the of sandwich the absorbent assembly between them. The moisture barrier 40 and the side-to-body liner 44 are desirably larger and wider than the absorbent assembly 42 so that the peripheries of the moisture barrier and the side-to-body lining can be joined together using ultrasonic joints, thermal bonds, adhesives or other suitable means. The peripheries of the moisture barrier 40 and the side-to-body lining 44 typically form the end and side margins of the undergarment 20. The absorbent assembly 42 may be attached directly to the moisture barrier 40 and / or the lining from side to body 44 using ultrasonic joints, thermal bonds, adhesives or other suitable means. As used herein, the term "attached" refers to the joining, adhering, holding or the like of two elements. The two elements will be considered to be joined together when they are directly linked to one another or indirectly to each other, just as each is directly linked to intermediate elements. The term "placed", "placed on", "placed with", "placed on", "placed near" and variations thereof are intended to mean that an element may be integrated to another element or that an element may be a separate structure attached or placed with or near another element.

The moisture barrier 40 desirably comprises a material that is formed or treated to be impermeable to the liquid. Alternatively the moisture barrier 40 may comprise a liquid permeable material and other suitable means may be provided to prevent movement of the lining out of the absorbent assembly, such as a liquid impervious layer (not shown) associated with the assembly. absorbent 42. The moisture barrier 40 may also be gas permeable, so that gases encountered during the use of the absorbent garment are capable of passing through the material under ordinary conditions of use, over all or part of its area Of surface.

The moisture barrier 40 may comprise a single layer of material or a laminate of two or more separate layers of material. Suitable moisture barrier materials include films, fabrics, nonwovens, film laminates, fabrics and / or nonwovens or the like. For example, the moisture barrier 40 may comprise a substantially thin liquid impervious fabric or a sheet of plastic film such as polyethylene, plastic film such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride or a similar material. The moisture barrier material may be transparent or opaque and have a etched or matt surface. A particular material for the moisture barrier 40 is a polyethylene film having a nominal thickness of about 0.025 mm and a systematic matte etched pattern, which has been corona treated on both sides. Another suitable moisture barrier material is a thermal laminate or adhesive comprising a blown or set film formed of polypropylene, polyethylene or the like, and a spunbonded fabric formed of polypropylene and polyethylene bicomponent fibers in a side configuration per side of 50/50.

The absorbent assembly 42 comprises materials adapted to absorb and retain the waste of the liquid. The absorbent assembly 42 may comprise various absorbent materials such as a block formed from air of cellulosic fibers (for example, wood pulp) or a coform material composed of a mixture of cellulosic fibers and synthetic polymer fibers. The polymer fibers can be incorporated, for example, in the manner described in U.S. Patent No. 5,227,107 issued on July 13, 1993 to Dickenson and others. The absorbent assembly 42 may also include compounds to increase their absorbency such as 0-95% by weight of organic or inorganic high-absorbency materials, which are typically capable of absorbing at least about 15 and desirably more than 25 times their weight in water . Suitable high-absorbency materials are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,699,823 issued October 13, 1987 to Kellenberger et al. And 5,147,343 issued September 15, 1992 to Kellenberger, which are incorporated herein by reference. High-absorbency materials are available from various commercial vendors, such as Dow Chemical Company, Hoechst Celanese Corporation and Allied Colloids, Inc. Absorbent assembly 42 may also include tissue layers or acquisition or distribution layers to help maintain integrity of fibrous absorbers or transport liquids (not shown).

The body side liner 44 is formed of a liquid permeable material so that the liquid waste, and possibly the semi-solid waste can also pass through the liner and be absorbed by the absorbent assembly 42. The proper side-to-body liners. 44 may comprise a non-woven fabric or a sheet of a moisture-resistant tissue paper, a perforated film, a spunbond fabric, formed by meltblown or bonded-carded composite filaments or synthetic polymer fibers, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polyesters or the like, or a fabric of filaments or fibers of natural polymers such as rayon or cotton. In addition, the side-to-body liner 44 is desirably non-elastic and can be treated with a surfactant to aid in liquid transfer. In a particular embodiment of the invention the liner 44 comprises a polypropylene fabric bonded by non-woven yarn of about 2.8-3.2 denier fibers formed into a fabric having a basis weight of about 22 grams and a density of about 0.06. gm / c. cubic. The fabric is treated on the surface with about 0.28% by weight of a surfactant commercially available from Rohm and Haas Co. under the trade designation Triton X-102. As used herein, the term "fabric" is used to refer to all woven, woven, and non-woven fibrous fabrics. The term "non-woven fabric" means a fabric of material which is formed without the aid of textile weaving or weaving processes.

The undergarment 20 is illustrated as having a rectangular periphery 36 but may optionally be hourglass-shaped, I-shaped I-shaped or irregularly shaped. The general shape of the absorbent assembly 42 may correspond to the shape of an undergarment 20 or assume a different shape. For example, the undergarment 20 may include a relatively short absorbent assembly capable of handling the liquid separated in the waist regions (not shown) as described in the United States patent application serial no. 08 / 515,505 entitled "Absorbent Article Having Improved Waist Drying and Method of Manufacture" and filed on August 15, 1995 by L. LeMahieu et al. (Attorney's issue No. 12,248) and assigned to the assignee of the present application.

Desirably, even if not necessarily, the undergarment 20 also includes the elastic members 46 for pulling and retaining the lateral margins of the undergarment 20 against the legs of the wearer and forming a seal therewith. The elongated leg elastic members 46 are oriented longitudinally on each lateral margin (only one side is shown in Figure 1) extending toward the front and rear outer edges 24 and 26. The elastic leg members 46 are positioned in an illustrated embodiment between the moisture barrier 40 and the side-to-body liner 44. Using suitable ultrasonic, adhesive, thermal, or other bonding joints, the elastic leg members 46 are fastened in a stretched condition to the moisture barrier 40, lining the side to the body 44 or both, in either a curved or straight form. Alternatively, the members of leg elastics 46 can be held in a relaxed state to a part harvested from the moisture barrier 40, from the side-to-body liner 44, or both.

The elastic members 46 can be formed from a dry-spun coalesced multifilament elastomer yarn sold under the name of LYCRA1 ^ and available from E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Company. Alternatively, the elastic members may be formed from other typical elastics used in the art of making undergarments such as a thin strip of natural rubber, a bonded and stretched laminate comprising an inner layer formed by pre-stretch elastic melt blown placed on sandwich form and attached to a pair of non-woven polypropylene fabrics joined by spinning, or the like. The elasticity can also be imparted to the absorbent article by extruding a hot melt elastomeric adhesive between the moisture barrier 40 and the liner 44. Other suitable resilience means are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,938,758 granted to Mesek and 4,388,075 granted to Mesek and others.

The fastening system in the illustrated embodiment includes a pair of strip members 22 that are detachably attached to the front and rear waist regions 30 and 32 to hold the undergarment 20 around the wearer's body. Clamping systems of this general type are discussed in U.S. Patent No. Bl 4,315,508 issued to Bolick, which is incorporated herein by reference. The present fastening system, which will now be described in greater detail, is designed to prevent twisting and twisting of the sides of the strip members or belt 22 and to prevent curling of the ends of the strip members during use. These improvements allow the use of relatively wide strips if desired, as well as improving the comfort and fit of the garment.

Each strip member 22 in the illustrated embodiment is provided with the first and second buttons 50 and 52 which are adapted to be detachably attached to the button holes 53 provided in the undergarment 20. The button holes 53 are desirably formed in the moisture barrier 40 and in the side-to-body liner 44 and may further comprise the buttonhole reinforcing tapes (not shown) as is well known in the art. How they are used here, the terms "detachably fastened", "detachably engaged" and variations thereof refer to that two elements are connected or can be connected so that the elements tend to remain connected during use in the absence of the user applying a force of single separation to one or both of the elements and the elements being able to separate without a substantial break or permanent deformation.

Strip members 22 are each generally rectangular strips of material which define a longitudinal axis 54 and a transverse axis generally perpendicular 55 (Figure 2). Each strip member 22 has the first and second end edges longitudinally spaced and opposite 56 and 58 and the opposite side edges 60 and 62 extending between the end edges. The size of the strip members 22 will vary depending on the type of garment to which they are attached and the size of the intended users. The distance between the end edges 56 and 58 defines the strip length, which is suitably from about 15 to about 40 cm. The distance between the side edges 60 and 62 defines the strip width, which is desirably at least about 25 mm. , and more particularly of at least about 30 mm. for improved performance. In a particular embodiment, each strip member 22 has a length dimension of 28.6 cms. and a width dimension of 38 mm.

For the purposes of the present invention, the strip members 22 are considered as being longitudinally divided into a first end region 64, a second end region 66 and a central region 68 which is intermediate interconnecting the first and second end regions. The first end region 64 is contiguous with the first end edge 56 and extends longitudinally inward therefrom to the central region 68. The second end region 66 is contiguous with the second end edge 58 and extends longitudinally inwardly. from the same to the central region 68.

Figure 3 represents an enlarged sectional view taken generally from a plane of line 3-3 of Figure 2, but taken slightly off center to illustrate the fastening of buttons 50 and 52. Buttons 50 and 52 are attached to the respective first and second end regions 64 and 66 of each strip member 22 in the holding places 70 (Fig. 3). A holding place 70 is defined by the location in which a rope or thread 72 or other suitable means attaches a button 50 or 52 to the strip member 22. The thread 72 is illustrated as passing through the sewing holes 74 on buttons 50 and 52 and passing through strip member 22.

In the illustrated embodiment, buttons 50 and 52 have the upper contoured surface 76 and a generally flat and opposite lower surface 78. Buttons 50 and 52 suitable for use in the present invention can be formed of polypropylene and have a diameter of 22 mm . , such as those available from Engineering Industries of Verona, Wisconsin, and identified as a green membrane button. In the illustrated embodiment, both end regions 64 and 66 of each strip member 22 can be attached to the undergarment 20 with buttons 50 or 52. Alternatively, however, one end of each strip member 22 can be formed integral to the undergarment 20 or attached thereto by other suitable means (not shown).

The term "button" as used herein refers to a group of fasteners that can be fastened to the strip members 22 at a point or in a relatively small region relative to the width dimension of the strip member. Examples of such fasteners include buttons, boteroles, hook eyes or the like. More particularly, the fasteners have a fastening location that constitutes less than about 40% of the width dimension of the strip member 20 and more particularly less than about 30% of the width dimension of the strip member.

The applicants have determined that these fasteners share a common problem, which is that when the elastic strip member 22 is elongated, the lines of force are formed within the strip member so that they are directed at a gradual angle from the ends of the strip member. lateral edges 60 and 62 of the strip longitudinally outwards and transversely inwards towards the fastening place 70 of the fastener. In essence, the strip member 22"tapers" near the holding place 70. When the strip member 22 is positioned against the user's body, the side edges 60 and 62 of the strip member tend to bend around a defined axis for lcis lines of force. As previously noted, these folded sides represent an irritant to the user because the strip forces will be concentrated in a small area and these will also adversely impact the notch of the undergarment.

The present invention relates to the recognition of this problem and the incorporation of an integral reinforcing material within the strip member 22 to provide improved elastic strip members with the button fasteners.

The strip members 22 are formed of an elastomeric material that is adapted to provide a relatively high degree of elasticity in the longitudinal direction 54 and a relatively high degree of dimensional stability in the transverse direction 55. The terms "elastic", "elasticized" and "elasticity" as used herein refers to that property of a material by virtue of which it tends to recover its original size and shape after the removal of a force that causes deformation. The term "elastomeric" refers to a material or compound which can be elongated by at least 25% of its relaxed length and which will be recovered with the release of the force applied to at least 10% of its elongation. It is generally preferred that the elastomeric material be capable of being elongated by at least 100% and more preferably by from 150 to 350% of its relaxed length and recovered, with the release of a force applied at least 50% of its elongation . The term "force" refers to the physical influence exerted by one body on another that produces the acceleration of bodies that are free to move and the deformation of bodies that are not free to move.

In order to provide the desired dimensional stability in the transverse direction 55, each strip member 22 comprises at least one relatively stiff monofilament or tie 80 yarn placed within a surrounding fabric structure 82 of the elastic material. The monofilament thread 80 is placed in the fabric structure 82 in a sinusoidal manner between the adjacent courses when the fabric is made. A portion of the length of the monofilament yarn 80 is illustrated in Figure 2 although it will be appreciated that the yarn 80 extends the full length of the strip member 22 and forms an integral component of the elastomeric strip material.

The monofilament yarn 80 suitably has a relatively greater rigidity than that of the yarns of the remaining cloth structure 82. In particular embodiments, the monofilament yarn 80 is composed of nylon yarn, but alternatively can comprise any natural synthetic yarn that provide a relatively greater stiffness than that of the remaining structure 82. The strip members 22 may comprise one or a plurality of monofilament yarns 80. For example, in one embodiment, the strip members 22 comprise a nylon monofilament yarn of about 80 denier and a nylon monofilament yarn of around 300 denier. Suitable monofilament yarns 80 are available from Shakespeare Monofilament Company of Columbia, South Carolina under the trademark SHAKESPEARE1 * 11. The monofilament yarns 80 provide transverse stability to the strip members 22 over the entire strip length, and as a result prevent the twisting and twisting of the strips between the buttons 50 and 52 when they are lengthened during use.

In one aspect of the present invention, the monofilament yarn 80 does not extend across the full strip width, rather, the monofilament yarn 80 changes directions at reversal points 84 which are positioned transversely inward of the side edges 62 and 60 of the strip member 22. The monofilament yarn 80 thus has an effective width between opposing reversal points 84 that is less than the width of the strip. In Figure 2, the effective width of the monofilament yarn 80 is illustrated by the arrow 86. The buffer zones 88 of the strip member 22 are therefore provided between the reverse points 84 of the monofilament yarn 80 and the corresponding side edges. 60 and 62 (figures 2 and 3). Buffer zones 88 provide relatively more flexible points of strip member 22 that are generally more comfortable against the wearer's body. Examples of fabrics containing inward reverse monofilament yarns are discussed in U.S. Patent No. 4., 244,199 issued on January 13, 1981 to Rhode and 4,631,932 issued December 30, 1986 to Sommers, which are incorporated herein by reference. The effective width 86 is suitably from about 50 to 100% of the width dimension of the strip members 22, and particularly from about 70 to about 95% for improved operation, so that the buffer zones 88 have a width of from about 2 to about 10 mm.

The strip members 22 may comprise any suitable fabric structure 82 for containing the monofilament yarn 80. The strip member 22 may comprise, for example, knitted, woven, crotchet woven or other suitable fabric structures. Suitable fabric structures 82 may comprise relatively inelastic yarns, relatively elastic yarns, relatively stiff monofilament yarns 80, cover yarns. The relatively inelastic yarns and the cover yarns are typically formed of polyester, nylon or other flexible natural or synthetic yarn materials. The relatively elastic yarns are typically formed of rubber, neoprene or spandex yarn materials.

In particular embodiments, yarn members 22 comprises a closed woven fabric formed of single weft closed weft yarns, 150 denier polyester warp; 3311 denier elastic neoprene threads; white nylon cover yarns consisting of four 70 denier threads; and monofilament yarns 80. The nylon cover yarns are positioned towards the body side of the strip member 22 opposite the buttons 50 and 52 to provide a plush surface. The strip material contains about 73.8 grains per yard of polyester fiber in the weft; about 3.6 grains per yard collectively in the warp and closed weave; and about 67.8 grains per yard of the neoprene elastic. The strip members 22 of the above type are produced by Shelby Elastics, Inc. of Shelby, North Carolina, under the trade designation KCM2. Other suitable materials of the strip member 22 may include different amounts of the above materials, including alternating materials, or may be formed by other manufacturing methods.

Applicants have discovered that the ends of the elastomeric strip members 22 longitudinally outward from the fastening locations of the button 70 have a tendency to curl under use. As a result of this, the end edges 56 and 58 are trapped between the body of the user and the rest of the strip member 22 or project at an angle towards the body and become a source of irritation. The incorporation of a monofilament yarn 80 into the strip member 22 will exacerbate this problem, because the cut ends of the rigid monofilament yarn protrude from the ends 56 and 58 of the strip member and will sting the skin if it were not for the applicant's solution described below.

In one aspect the invention pertains to the use of end seals 90 to virtually immobilize the monofilament yarn 80. The end seals 90 which are illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 as cross regions, are present at both ends of the strip member. 22 contiguous to each end edge 56 and 58. As best seen in Figure 2, the end seals 90 have a width dimension represented by the arrow 92 which is parallel to the transverse axis 55 of the strip member 22 and a dimension in length represented by the arrow 94 (also figure 3) which is parallel to the longitudinal axis 56 of the strip member. The width dimension 92 of each end seal 90 is suitably equal to or greater than the effective width 86 of the monofilament yarn 80 (Figure 2). Additionally, the width dimension 92 is desirably less than the width of the strip even when not necessarily.

To effectively contain the monofilament yarn 80 the end seals 90 are substantially continuous through the full width dimension 92 so that the yarn 80 is immobilized at the end edges 56 and 58 of the strip member 22 regardless of the location in which the strip member is cut. The term "virtually continuous" as used herein in reference to the end seal 90 means that the end seal is free of separations or interruptions that could allow the monofilament thread to protrude from the end edges 56 and 58 and desirably is free. of separations or interruptions that are equal to or greater than the diameter of a monofilament yarn optically measured at the end edge 56 and 58.

The end seals 90 may be formed by ultrasonic bonding in adhesive section, thermal bonding, ultrasonic cutting, laser cutting, or other suitable means. A significant feature of the end seals 90 is that the fabric structure 82 surrounding the monofilament yarn 80 is bonded to itself to restrict or virtually prevent the movement of the monofilament yarn. In doing so, the monofilament yarn 80 is unable to protrude beyond the cutting end edges 56 and 58 and bite the user during use. The monofilament yarn 80 can also be attached to the fabric structure 82 at the end seals 90 to further immobilize the yarn 80.

In one embodiment the end wires 90 are formed by ultrasonically joining a portion of the strip member 22 to form the end seals 90. The ultrasonic bonding process causes the fabric structure 82 to melt and adhere itself. The term "melt and adhere" is used herein to mean that the individual fibers comprising the fabric structure 82 have been processed to their softening point and allowed to directly attach to the other fibers of the fabric structure. Alternatively, the fabric structure 82 can be bonded to itself and / or to the monofilament yarn 80 by adhesive bonds such as chemical bonds, mechanical bonds, thermal bonds or the like for mobilizing the monofilament yarn.

Another aspect of the invention relates to the ability of end seals 90 to resist curling during use. Applicants have determined that the ends of the elastic strips 22 containing monofilament yarns 80 tend to resist crimping when the seal ends 90 are adapted to have a deflection resistance value of at least about 200 grams, and particularly when in combination with the end seals having a length dimension 94 greater than 3 mm. The resistance to deflection of the end seal 90 measures the amount of resistance to bending that is provided by the part of the strip member 22 adjacent an end edge 56 or 58. Within the parameters indicated above the ends of the members of strip 22 tend to lie flat on the user's body, thereby reducing a source of irritation.

Deflection resistance values of end seals 90 are more particularly at least about 300 grams, and beneficially over 400 grams for improved performance. The resistance to deflection of an end seal 90 can be altered by modifying the composition of the strip member 22 and changing the number or weight of the monofilament yarns 80, varying the width and length dimensions 92 and 94 of the end seal, adjusting the degree of fiber bond in the end seal or the like. A suitable method for determining the resistance to deflection is set forth in greater detail hereinafter.

The end seals 90 are desirably contiguous to the edges of ends 56 and 58 substantially continuous across the width dimension 92 and have a length dimension 94 of more than 3 mm. In particular embodiments, the end seals 90 have a length dimension 94 of at least about 10 mm. , such as from about 10 to about 16 mm. , for improved performance. The end seals 90 are also substantially continuous through the length dimension 94. In addition, the end seals 90 are desirably longitudinally spaced from the holding locations 70 of the buttons 50 and 52 by a spacing illustrated by the arrow 96 in FIG. Figure 2 is no more than about 10 mm. and more particularly of no more than about 6 mm. , such as from 0 to about 6 mm. for improved performance. Applicants have determined that the strip ends are more likely to curl as the size of the gap increases 96.

The present end 90 seals differ significantly from those employed on conventional elastic strips of commercial disposable absorbent undergarments. Initially, it is noted that applicants have not identified some disposable absorbent undergarments incorporating a monofilament yarn and therefore, the end seals used on commercial products are thought to be different in the basic aspect that they do not incorporate a yarn. of monofilament. It is believed that conventional undergarment yarns do not combine the following features: (1) the end seal being contiguous with the end edge of the strip member, (2) the end seal being substantially continuous over the width of the seal. extreme; and (3) the end seal having a length of more than about 3 mm. Furthermore, it is believed that conventional underwear strips do not combine the following characteristics: (1) the end seal being adjacent to the end edge of the strip member; (2) the end seal being located continuous over the width of the end seal; and (3) the end seal being located no more than about 10 mm. of the button attachment location. For the purposes of the comparison the threads of five commercially available disposable absorbent undergarments were examined and the results are described below.

The first undergarment was representative of those products sold by Kimberly-Clark Corporation of Neenah, Wisconsin, around January 1996 under the brand DEPEND "* .The threads have end seals that were contiguous with the end edges of the strips.Each end seal had a length of 9.5 mm and compressed a series of ultrasonic joint areas formed by bar. were located within 4.5 mm of the button clamping locations The strip fibers were bonded by melting a linked others and joined together rather than being substantially continuous across the width of each end seal, the joined areas they only understand around the 50% of the width of each end seal.

The second undergarment examined was commercially available from Oseo Drug and was manufactured by Pope & Talbot from Portland, Oregon. The undergarment was purchased in January 1995 under the Oseo Drug brand. The strips had end seals that were contiguous with the end edges. The end seals had a length of about 0.4 mm; they were continuous through the full width of the strips; and were located 15 mm from the locations of the button clamping. Strip fibers do not appear to have adhered with melted one another.

The third undergarment examined was commercially available from Wal-Mart and was manufactured by Inbranda Corporation of Marieta, Georgia. The undergarment was purchased in January 1996 under the brand ASSURANCE "* .The strips had end seals that were contiguous to the end edges.The end seals had lengths varying from about 0.4 to 0.8 mm. through the full width of the strips, and were located 15 mm from the button fastening locations.The strip fibers did not appear to have adhered with melted one another.

The fourth test article was commercially available from Walgreen Drug Stores and was manufactured by ICD Industries of King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. The undergarment was purchased in January 1996 under the Walgreen Belted Undergarments brand. The strips had end seals that were contiguous with the end edges. The end seals had widths ranging from around 0.4 to 0.8 mm.; they were continuous through the full width of the strips; and were located at 15 mm. of the button attachment locations. Strip fibers do not appear to have adhered with melted one another.

The fifth item tested was commercially available from Access Medical and was manufactured by The Procter & Gamble Company of Cincinnati, Ohio. The undergarment was purchased in January 1996 under the trademark ATTENDS1 * the strips had end seals that were contiguous to the end edges. The end seals had a length of about 0.8 mm.; they were continuous through the full width of the strips; and they were located at 15 mm. of the button attachment location. Strip fibers do not appear to have adhered with melted one another.

Applicants have determined that the incorporation of the monofilament yarns 80 within the strip members 22 prevents substantial force vectors from being directed from the side edges 60 and 62 at a gradual angle toward the fastening locations 60 of the buttons 50 and 52. By interrupting these inwardly directed force vectors, the tendency of the side edges of the strip members 22 to be twisted and rolled up is greatly reduced or eliminated. Applicants have determined that the end seals 90 which are contiguous with the end edges 56 and 58 and are substantially continuous through a width dimension 92 that is equal to or greater than the effective width 86 of the monofilament thread 80 will immobilize or They will catch the monofilament thread to prevent it from protruding from the end edges and itching the user. In addition, applicants have determined that the ends of the strip members 22 will resist crimping when the end seals 90 are contiguous with the end edges 56 and 58 and have a length dimension 94 of more than 3 mm. and desirably a value of resistance to deflection of at least about 200 grams. Applicants have also determined that the ends of the strip members 22 will resist crimping when the end seals 90 are separated from the clamping locations 70 of the buttons 50 and 52 by a gap 96 of no more than about 10 mm.

In use, the undergarment 20 is placed on the wearer's body and secured in position using the restraint system. The user may engage a button 50 or 52 of each strip member 22 with a button hole 53 in the rear waist region 32. After stretching or relaxing the strip members 22 to obtain the desired tension there, the user may then engaging the opposite button 50 or 52 of each strip member in one of the corresponding button holes 53 in the front waist region 30. During the application of the strip members 22 and during use, the transverse stabilization of the members Strip 22 provided by the monofilament yarn 80 prevents the force vectors within the strip member from being formed at an angle from the side edges 60 and 62 towards the fastening locations 70 of the buttons 50 and 52. Therefore it is minimized or the tendency of the end edges of the strip members 22 to be rolled and twisted is eliminated. The end seals 90 according to the present invention immobilize the monofilament yarn 80 within the fabric structure 82 to eliminate a potential source of irritation and also reduce curling of the ends of the strip to eliminate another source of irritation.

Each of the above or similar embodiments of the invention can be constructed by providing each of the individual components and joining them together in the manner set forth above. Strip members 22 are desirably formed in a process that begins by providing a continuous weave of elastomeric strip material. The material comprises a fabric structure 82 and a monofilament yarn 80 positioned transversely within the fabric structure in a sinusoidal manner. The fabric is advanced in an intermittent mode to an end seal deforming station for processing. The discrete regions of the continuous fabric are treated in the training station, such as by ultrasonic bonding, adhesives, heat or the like to form a plurality of bonded areas where the fabric structure 82 is attached to itself and / or to the monofilament yarn 80 to immobilize the monofilament yarn 80. Each of the Bonding areas desirably have a length of at least 6 mm. The continuous weave is then transversely cut across the tie areas to form a plurality of strip members 22. As a result of the cut, each cutting part of the joint area defines an end seal 90 adjacent to each end edge. 58 and 56 of the strip member 22. Each end seal 90 desirably has a length of at least 3 mm. and a value of resistance to deflection of more than 200 grams. The buttons 50 and 52 are joined in place to complete the fabrication of each strip member 22.

In one embodiment the method employs ultrasonic bonding equipment to form end seals 90. A suitable ultrasonic pusher system is available from Dukane Corporation, Ultrasonics Division, from st. Chales, Illinois. This unit is identified as a 2000-watt DPC 220 system mentioas a 2200C220T model, with a titanium driver of 2.0: 1 gain mounted on a titanium horn number 25952. The horn has working face dimensions of 28.5 by 41.1 mm. and an extrafine male knot pattern on the incomplete work face to improve soldier quality and time. The pusher system is mounted on a frame such that the horn when retracted is separated from an anvil that matches a gap of 19.1 mm. The anvil has a working face of 31.8 by 44.5 mm.

For ultrasonic bonding the elastomeric strip material is kept adequately stationary for a short period such as less than about 790 milli seconds. Once the material is stationary, the pusher system is activated to advance the horn toward the anvil at a force of 45,700 kilograms (65 psi) until the horn face contacts the elastomeric strip material. The horn continues to advance until a force of 17578 kilograms per square meter (25 psi) has been applied to the material. At this point the ultrasound is activated by sufficient ultrasound over time and with sufficient energy to form the desired bonding area. The pusher system then retracts the horn. The formation of suitable end seals 90 of the type described there may involve the activation of the ultrasound at intervals of about 375 to 550 milliseconds and the application of from about 300 to 400 joules of welding energy to the material. For the strip material having a side that is relatively more mat, the plush surface is desirably positiotoward the anvil for a softer surface against the body.

In particular embodiments the ultrasonic pusher system is adapted to form a plurality of areas joiin the continuous weave of the elastomeric strip material. The joiareas have a length dimension of about 25.4 mm. and a width dimension equivalent to the width of the strip. The joiareas are then cut in half using a mechanical blade.

The cutting of the strip members 22 can be achieved by a variety of mechanisms such as ultrasonic cutting, laser cutting, water cutting or the like. Mechanical scissor cutting is believed to generally produce edges of straighter ends 56 and 58 than the ultrasonic cut, and it is believed that straighter edges produce less irritation to the skin.

Having thus described the present invention and the process for making it, a number of examples were prepared to give a more detailed understanding of the invention. These examples and the testing procedures for Medilos are set forth below. The particular amounts, proportions, aspositions and parameters are intended to be exemplary and are not intended to specifically limit the scope of the invention.

PROOF PROCEDURES The deflection resistance test measures the peak load when a test specimen taken from a strip member 22 is deflected around an axis parallel to the extension or longitudinal dimension of the strip member and centered in the width dimension. The test employs a Synthetic material test system also known as a voltage tester. Appropriate test system is the 1 / S model available from MTS Systems Corporation of Eden Prairie, MN. The material testing system was provided with a suitably dimensioload cell, for example a 4.54 kilogram (10 pound) load cell available from MTS Systems Corporation. The material testing system is overcome using a suitable control program, for example, the EST WORKS * version 013.03 for WINDOWS * "available from MTS Systems Corporation.

Referring to FIG. 8, a test specimen 120 is illustrated in a suitable position for testing in the material testing system 122. The material testing system 122 includes the lower and upper pneumatic grippers 124 and 126 that can be moved vertically in relationship one to another. The upper pneumatic grippers 124 include an opposite pair of rubber coatings 130 gripping coatings. The grip coatings 130 are adapted to move toward each other through the action of the pneumatic cylinders 132. As illustrated, a metal plate Rigida 134 is held in place as a result of being pressed between the grip covers 130. The metal plate measures 105 mm in length, 80 mm in width and one millimeter in thickness. The metal plate 134 is positioned so that the width dimension of the plate is parallel to the direction of movement of the upper and lower pneumatic grips 124 and 126.

The lower pneumatic grips 126 include an opposite pair of rubber coated gripping coatings 140.

The grip coatings 140 of the lower pneumatic grips 126 are controlled by pneumatic cylinders (not shown) that are held in a retracted position for this test. The spacing between the two halves of the lower pneumatic grips 126 is illustrated by arrow 142 and is maintained at 21 mm. The distance between the grip coatings 140 of the lower pneumatic grips 126 is illustrated by arrow 144 and is maintained at 11 mm.

The test specimen 120 is cut from the strip member 22 using scissors or the like in the following manner. The width of the test specimen 120 is 21 mm. and was measured parallel to width dimension of strip member 22. The width of 21 mm. of the test specimen 120 is therefore cut from the middle part of the strip member 22, centered between the side edges 64 and 66. The length dimension of the test specimen 120 was taken from the part of the strip member 122 adjacent to the end edges. The length of the test specimen 120 is the length of the end seal. Any buttons 50 or 52 that are attached to the test specimen 120 are removed with scissors or a blade before the test.

The deflection resistance test was started by calibrating and preparing the equipment as specified by the manufacturer. The test specimen 120 was placed on the lower pneumatic lugs 126 with the non-body side portion positioned toward the metal plate 134. The test specimen 120 is oriented such that the width dimension is 21 mm. is perpendicular to the plane of the metal plate 134. The edges of the test specimen 120 were allowed to rest on the upper surfaces of the handle coatings 140 of the lower pneumatic lugs 126.

During the test, the pneumatic lugs 126 remained stationary while the upper pneumatic lugs 124 moved vertically relative to these. The metal plate 134 is square as much as possible in relation to the test specimen 120 and lowered until the metal plate almost touches the test specimen. At this time, the control program is started. In general, upper pneumatic grippers 124 are lowered at a rate of 5.8 cms. per minute at a distance of 2 cms. and then they go back to the original position. The peak load measured by the load cell is recorded and represents the value of resistance to deflection for test specimen 120. The control computer program is reprinted below. For purposes of clarity, inactive result calculation lines have been omitted.

Master name: COMPRES Method name: strapcomp Computer program version: 3.03 Method Description: Standard for COMPRESSION PUROUTS The standard contains the most common result calculations required for the compression test application. Among the ASTM tests that can be carried out using this standard are D695, E9 & C185 Start of Test Messages; Start of Test Message 1 Start of Test Message 2 Start of Test Message 3 Start of Test Message 4 Premuestra messages: Premuestra message? 1 Message from premuestra f 2 Message from premuestra? 3 Pre-Specimen Messages Pre-Specimen Message? 1 Pre-Specimen Message? 2 Pre-Specimen Message? 3 Graph Window, EG-Y: EGY Measurement Maximum MANUAL EGY Measurement Minimum MANUAL Label of EGY LOAD EGY Units Gm EGY Min 0.000000 EGY Max 10000.000000 Decimals 1 Graphics Window. EG-Xt Measurement of EGX Max MANUAL Measurement of EGX Min MANUAL Tag of EGX EXTENSION Units of EGX mm 15 EGX Min 0.000000 EGX Max 20000.000000 Decimals 1 Decentral X 0.000000 Test Flow: Access Level Method [9] Specimens Per Sample [999] Speed Increase [0.100000] Displayed Graph [Y] 25 Results Shown [Y] Pause During Data Taken [N] Auto Sample Increment [N] Save Unprocessed Data Auto [N] Reject Auto On Limits [N] Print Sample Auto [N] Discard On Reject [Y] Comment Auto [N] Load Sample Auto [N] Return Head Cross Auto [N] Measure Removal [N] 10 Pause for Measurement Removal [N] Reference Name; Reference Loaded: NONE Configuration; Load Direction DOWN Extension Direction DOWN Elasticity NO End of Test Action HIGH 20 Type of Method STANDARD Move Segment: Type REPLACE EXTENSION State CAPACITED 25 Direction WITHOUT CHANGE Inactive Acquisition Data Pointsd End Action CONTINUOUS Message Type CHAIN REST OF TARA 1 State INCAPACITED Direction WITHOUT CHANGE Acquisition INACTIVE Data Points 0 10 Final Action CONTINUOUS Message Type TARA REST CHAIN 2 DISABLED STATE 15 Direction NON CHANGE Acquisition INACTIVE DATA Points 0 Final Action CONTINUOUS Message 20 Type IR TO CHAIN § CONSTANT SPEED State TRAVELED Direction DOWN Acquisition ACTIVE 25 Data Points 500 Final Action CONTINUED Message Initial Speed to% of tension point.

Type IR A CHAIN § CONSTANT SPEED State TRAVELED Direction DOWN Acquisition ACTIVE Data Points 499 Final Action CONTINUOUS Message Secondary Speed at% of voltage point.

Sample Entries: # Label Omission Attribute 0 User Input 1 User Omission 1 OPTIONAL 1 User input 2 User default 2 OPTIONAL 2 User input 3 User omission 3 OPTIONAL 3 User input 4 User omission 4 OPTIONAL 4 User input 5 User omission 5 OPTIONAL 5 User input 6 User omission 6 OPTIONAL 6 User input 7 User default 7 OPTIONAL 7 User input 8 User omission 8 OPTIONAL 8 User input 9 User default 9 OPTIONAL 9 User Input 10 User Omission 10 OPTIONAL Sample Naming Format: Alias Sample ID Length = 30 Alias Length = 0 Alias Length = 0 Alias Length = 0 Alias Length = 0 Channel delineation:? Label Class Unit State Formula [0] EXTENSION ACTIVE DIMENSION PO (Primary Voltage) [0] TIME ACTIVE TIME Pl [2] CA-RGA ACTIVE LOAD P2 [3] LOGIC 3 INACTIVE DIMENSION P3 (Secondary Voltage) [4] LOGIC 4 INACTIVE CHARGE P4 Report Header: Strip Stiffness Compression Load (g) Integrated Reports: Integrated Report # 0 Integrated 1 Printer Head And Printed Sample Information And Individual Printed Specimens And Printed Status N Printed Calculation Inputs And Printed Test Entries Printed Comments N Integrated Report # 1 Integrated 2 Header Printer And Printed Sample Information And Individual Printed Specimens And Printed Status And Printed Calculation Entries And Printed Test Entries And Printed Comments N Units Shown: Load Libra Speed Extension In / Min. Area Sq.In Tension% Time Min Effort PSI Specimen Tickets:? Label Unid. Omission Attribute Ent. Reference Panel 0 Diameter In 0.500 HIDDEN N 1 Length In 0. 125 HIDDEN N 2 Height In 2. 00 HIDDEN N Rslt 10.21 3 Area Sq. In 2. 00 HIDDEN N 4 Ent. Mise 1 (none) 1.00 HIDDEN N 5 Ent. Mise .2 (none) 1. 00 HIDDEN N 6 Ent. Mise .3 (none) 1. 00 HIDDEN N 7 Ent, Mise. 4 (none) 1. 00 HIDDEN N Calculation Entries # Label Unid. Default Attribute Ent.Panel Reference 0 Long.Calib. In 2.00 EXHIBIT N Req.2,2,3,9 1 Calib.Unit In / In 1.00 OPTIONAL N 2 Pun.remoc. In 1.00 OPTIONAL N Req 3 3 Fall Brk%% 10.00 OPTIONAL N 4 Alarg.Cai Brk In 0.001 OPTIONAL N 5 Val.Carg.Brk Lb 50.00 OPTIONAL N 6 Ang.Rendition ddeegg 0.00 OPTIONAL N 7 Rend.% SegLen% 10.00 OPTIONAL N 8 Incl.Tol% 98.00 OPTIONAL N 9 Incl.% SegLen% 10.00 OPTIONAL N 10 Load Incl. Min. L Lbb 0.00 OPTIONAL N 11 Load Incl. Max. Lb 10000.00 OPTIONAL N 12 Tens. Min.Incl. PSI 0.00 OPTIONAL N 13 Tens.Max. Inc. PSI 1000.00 OPTIONAL N 14 Point Tens.% 1% 2.00 OPTIONAL NRslt27,29,31,33,35 15 Point Tens.% 2% 5.00 OPTIONAL NRslt28,30,32,34,36 16 Point 1 Alarg. In 0.10 OPTIONAL N Rslt23.25 17 Point 2 Alarg. In 0.10 OPTIONAL N Rslt24.26 18 Point Esf. 1 PSI 100.0 OPTIONAL N Rslt37.39 19 Point Esf. 2 PSI 200.0 OPTIONAL N Rslt38,40 20 Dec.Rend. % 2 OPTIONAL N Rsltl6, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 21 Preload Afloj. Lb 5.00 OPTIONAL N 22 Point Tens.3%% 5.00 OPTIONAL N Rslt 46 Test Tickets F Label Unid. Omission Attribute Ent. of Panel Reference 0 Vel. Start In / Min 2.00 EXHIBIT N MSeg 3 1 Vel. Sec. In / Min 4.00 OPTIONAL N MSeg 4 2% Lím. % 100.0 OPTIONAL N Mseg 3 3 Lím. Training% 200.0 OPTIONAL NMsßg 4 Load Limit High Lb 25 DISPLAY N 5 Load Limit Low Lb -5000 OPTIONAL N 6 Max.Ext.Width mm 20.0 DISPLAY N 7 Limit.Ext.Low In -20.0 OPTIONAL N 8 Limit.Tens.Alto% 3000000.1 OPTIONAL N 9 Threshold Limit% -3000000.0 OPTIONAL N 10 Lim.Sh. High PSI 2999999.9 OPTIONAL N 11 Lim.If.Low PIS -3000000 OPTIONAL N 12 No. of Cycles (none) 20.0 OPTIONAL N 13 Limit Time. Sec 10000 OPTIONAL N 14 Sensib. Brk% 75 OPTIONAL N 15 Return Point In 0. 0 EXHIBIT N Required Markers: f Category Code Attribute 1 BREAKFAST POINT F MOBILE 2 SURVEY POINT AND MOBILE 3 BEGIN MODULE B MOBILE 4 ENFORCES MODULO M MOBILE Optional Markers f Category Code Attribute Formula Inputs Reference AT MIDPOINT 0 HIDDEN 6 AT PIP 1 HIDDEN 7 AT PIP 2 HIDDEN 8 AT PIP 3 HIDDEN 9 AT PIP 4 HIDDEN 10 FREE 5 HIDDEN TINDEX (LOAD, PEAK) 11 FREE 6 HIDDEN §INDEX (LOAD, PEAK) 12 FREE 7 HIDDEN §INDEX (LOAD, PEAK) 13 FREE 8 HIDDEN §INDEX (LOAD, PEAK) 14 FREE 9 HIDDEN §INDEX (LOAD, PEAK) Required Calculations: f Category Procedure Entries 0 INACTIVE AREA 1 VOLTAGE 1 / AREA 2 PRIMARY EFFORT 1 / C00 COO 3 SECONDARY EFFORT 1 / COO C03 4 BREAKDOWN INACTIVE 5 PERFORMANCE POINT INACTIVE 6 PRIMARY INACTIVATION TILT 7 INACTIVE BREAKING COMPENSATION 8 CENTERING PERFORMANCE INACTIVE 9 ADJUSTMENT OF INACTIVE CALIBRATION LENGTH Cl Resulting Calculations: # Label Category Framule Units Attribute 0 Load Peak FIXED LOAD PEAK Gm EXHIBIT Sample and Load Reports: Free Form Sample Report Fixed Report (1) Freeform Load Report < none > Destination Load COMM PORT File Name Load DATA.TMP Test Page Windows: Display Load Meter And Display Extension Meter And Display Stress Meter 1 N Show Stress Meter 2 N Show Machine Status N Show Test Messages N Show Specimen Entries N Show Description N Show Panel N Show Machine And Show Multiexhibition N Show Phone And Show Rule N Show Peaks N Rule Omissions: Maximum Rule Top 40.000000 Maximum Rule Down -40.000000 Rule Control Mode POSITION Rule Units IN Rule Length of Calibration 1.000000 Rule Units of Calibration Length In Precision Rule Decimals 1 Meter Failures: Load Meter Scale 100.000000 Load Units Meter Lb Load Decimals Meter 1 Load Meter Mode DIGITAL Meter Extension Full Scale 1.000000 Extension Meter Unidades In Extension Meter Decimals 1 Extension Meter DIGITAL Mode Stress 1 Measure Full Scale 1.000000 Voltage 1 Measure Units In Voltage 1 Measure Decimals 1 Voltage 1 Measure Mode ANALOGUE Stress 2 Measure Full Scale 1.000000 Voltage 2 Measure Units In Voltage 2 Measure Decimals 1 Voltage 2 Measure ANALOGUE Mode Peak Omissions: Show Peak Load And Load Units Lb Load Decimals 1 Show Peak Extension And Extension Units In Decimal Extension i Display Peak And Voltage Stress Units% Stress Decimals 1 Show Stress Peak And Stress PSI Units Stress Decimals 1 Show Y Account Cycle Omissions Final Action of Panel: Load Final Action HIGH Extension Final Action HIGH Tension Final Action HIGH Effort Final Action HIGH EXAMPLES In each of the following examples the strip member pairs for use with disposable absorbent undergarments were produced. Each strip member was formed of an elastomeric material comprising nylon, polyester and elastic materials from Shelby Elastics of Shelby, North Carolina. A pair of buttons having a diameter of 2 2 mm from Engineering Industries was stitched over the opposite end regions of the strip members. Example A Each strip member of Example A included two nylon monofilament yarns transversely placed in the surrounding fabric structure in a sinusoidal fashion over a width of 31.8 mm. One monofilament thread was 180 denier and the other was 330 denier. The strip material had a width of 38.1 mm. Each strip member was cut with scissors to a length of 26.7 cms. and had an end seal formed ultrasonically adjacent to each end edge. The end seal had a length of 3.2 mm. , and a width of 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 24.1 cms. The separation between the end seal and the location of the button clamp was around 10 mm.

The deflection resistance of a test specimen of these strip members was measured and found to have a value of 19.4 grams. The test specimens had a width of 21 mm. and a length of 3.2 mm.

Example B Each strip member of Example B included two nylon monofilament yarns placed transversely in the surrounding fabric structure in a sinusoidal fashion over a width of 31.8 mm. One monofilament thread was 80 denier and the other was 330 denier. The strip material had a width of 38.1 mm. Each strip member was ultrasonically cut to a length of 26.7 cms. and had an ultrasonically formed end seal adjoining each end edge. The end seal had a length of 3.2 mm. and a width of 31.8 mm. The buttons were separated by 24.1 cm., The separation between the end seal and the location of the button clamping was around 10 mm.

The deflection resistance of a test specimen of these strip members was measured and found to have a value of 14.7 grams. The test specimens had a width of 21 mm. and a length of 3.2 mm.

Example C Each strip member of Example C included an 80 denier nylon monofilament yarn positioned transversely in a surrounding fabric structure in a sinusoidal fashion over a width of 31.8 mm. The strip material had a width of 38.1 mm. Each strip member was cut with scissors to a length of 26.7 cms. and had an ultrasonically formed end seal adjoining each end edge. The end seal had a length of 3.2 mm. and a width of 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 24.1 cms. The separation between the end seal and the location of the button clamp was around 10 mm.

The deflection resistance of a test specimen of these strip members was measured and found to have a value of 14.7 grams. The test specimens had a width of 21 mm and a length of 3.2 mm.

Each of the strip members of examples A to C were tested in combination with a disposable internal absorbent test. The undergarment comprised a liquid impervious moisture barrier, a polypropylene body-side liner bonded by spinning, attached to the moisture barrier, and an absorbent assembly sandwiched between the moisture barrier and the liner. from the side to the body. The moisture barrier comprised an adhesive laminate of an inner layer of polyethylene film and a nonwoven outer layer bonded by spinning. The body-to-body absorbent assembly and moisture barrier were joined together using an adhesive construction. The undergarment also included the elastic leg members secured along the two lateral margins of the garment. Button holes with reinforcement ribbons were generally provided in the four corners of the undergarment.

A notching study was conducted using 30 female panelists having hip sizes in the range of 119.4 to 152.4 cms. Applicants have speculated that relatively large individuals will stress the suspension system more and therefore will be able to better differentiate the functionality of the strip. Each panelist tested each of the strip members from examples A to C. Each panelist was cautioned to wear an undergarment with a pair of example strip members during the night there through the following day, for a minimum of 16 hours, and return the next day for photographs and evaluations.

The qualitative results obtained from the above test indicate that the strip members of Example C did not also function as the strip members of Examples A and B. In particular the strip members of Example C exhibited greater twisting and coiling of the side edges.; to a rubbed and frayed increased near the buttons. Increased irritation during the day; and an increased scratching sensation near the buttons. It seems to the applicants that the functionality improves with increasing the number of threads and monofilament size.

Example D Each strip member of Example D included two nylon monofilament yarns transversely placed in the surrounding fabric structure in a sinusoidal fashion over a width of 31.8 mm. One monofilament thread was 80 denier and the other was 330 denier. The strip material had a width of 38.1 mm. Each strip member was cut with scissors to a length of 28.6 cms. and had an ultrasonically formed end seal adjoining each end edge. The end seal had a length of 3.2 mm and a width of 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 26 cms. The spacing between the end seal and the clamping location of the button was around 10 mm. The deflection resistance of a test specimen of these strip members was measured and found to have a value of 107.6 grams. The test specimens had a width of 21 mm and a length of 3.2 mm.

Example E Each strip member of Example E included two nylon monofilament yarns placed transversely in the surrounding fabric structure in a sinusoidal fashion over a width of 31.8 mm. One monofilament thread was 180 denier and the other was 520 denier. The strip material had a width of 38. 1 mm Each strip member was cut with scissors to a length of 28.6 cms. and had an ultrasonically formed end seal adjoining each end edge. The end seal had a length of 3.2 mm and a width of 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 26 cms. The spacing between the end seal and the clamping location of the button was around 10 mm.

The deflection resistance of a test specimen of these strip members was measured and found to have a value of 146.4 grams. The test specimens had a width of 21 mm. and a length of 3.2 mm.

Example F Each strip member of Example F included two nylon monofilament yarns placed transversely in the surrounding fabric structure in a sinusoidal fashion over a width of 31.8 mm. One monofilament thread was 180 denier and the other was 520 denier. The strip material had a width of 38.1 mm. Each strip member was cut with scissors to a length of 26.7 cms. and had an ultrasonically formed end seal adjoining each end edge. The end seal had a length of 3.2 mm and a width of 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 24.1 cms. The separation between the end seal and the location of the button clamp was around 10 mm.

The deflection resistance of the strip members of Example F should be similar to that of the strip members of Example E.

Each of the strip members of the Examples D to F were tested in combination with disposable absorbent undergarments as described in relation to the test of Examples A to C. An adjustment study was conducted using 12 female panelists having hip sizes in the range of 106.7 to 152.4 cms. Each panelist tested each of the strip members from Examples D to F. Each panelist was informed to wear an undergarment with a pair of example strip members during the night and through the next day, for a minimum of 16 hours. and to return the next day for photographs and evaluations.

The qualitative results obtained from the test of examples D to F suggest that an increase in the size of the monofilament contributes to the reduction in twisting and rolling.

Example of Control G Each strip member of control example G was representative of those sold by Kimberly-Clark Corporation of Neenah, Wisconsin in about January 1996 under the trademark DEPEND * 01. Each strip member had a width of 25.4 mm. and cut with scissors to a length of 26.0 cms. The strips had end seals that were contiguous with the end edges of the strips. Each end seal had a length of about 9.5 mm. and comprised a series of rod-shaped ultrasonic bonding areas. Strip fibers adhered with melted one another in the bonding areas. Rather than being substantially continuously across the width of each end seal, the joint areas comprised only about 50 percent of the width of each end seal. The buttons were separated by 22.9 cms. and the spacing between the end seals and the button fastening locations was around 5 mm.

The deflection resistance of a test specimen of these strip members was measured and found to have a value of 42.6 grams. The test specimens had a width of 21 mm. and a length of 9.5 mm.

Example H Each strip member of Example H included two nylon monofilament threads transversely placed in the surrounding fabric structure in a sinusoidal fashion over a width of 31.8 mm. One monofilament thread was 80 denier and the other was 330 denier. The strip material had a width of 38.1 mm. Each strip member was cut with scissors to a length of 28.6 cms. and had an ultrasonically formed end seal adjoining each end edge. The end seal had a length of 19.1 mm. and a width of 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 25.4 cms. and they were joined through the end seals so that there was no separation between the end seals and the button fastening locations.

The deflection resistance of 5 test specimens of these strip members was measured and found to have an average value of 1292 grams, with a standard deviation of 68.4 grams. The test specimens had a width of 21 mm. and a length of 19.1 mm.

Example 1 Each strip member of Example 1 was similar to those of Example H except that the end seal had a length of 15.9 mm. The end seal resides essentially under the button not leaving a gap between the end seal and the button fastening location. The deflection resistance of the test specimen of these strip members was measured and found to have an average value of 1117 grams with a standard deviation of 116.7 grams. The test specimens had a width of 21 mm. and a length of 15.9 mm.

Example J Each strip member of Example J was similar to those of Example H except that the end seal had a length of 12.7 mm. The separation between the end seal and the button attachment location was around 3 mm. The deflection resistance of 5 test specimens of these strip members was measured and found to have an average value of 836 grams, with a standard deviation of 20.4 grams. The test specimens had a width of 21 mm and a length of 12.7 mm.

Example K Each strip member of Example K was similar to those of Example H except that the end seal had a length of 9.5 mm. The separation between the end seal and the location of the button clamping was around 7 mm. The deflection resistance of 5 test specimens of these strip members was measured and found to have an average value of 667 grams, with a standard deviation of 47.4 grams. The test specimens had a width of 21 mm. and a length of 9.5 mm.

Each of the strip members of control example G and examples H to K were tested in combination with disposable absorbent undergarments as described in relation to the test of examples A to C. An adjustment study was conducted using 12 female panelists having hip sizes in the range of 106.7 to 152.4 cms. Each panelist tested each of the strip members from examples G to K. Each panelist was informed to wear an undergarment with a pair of example strip members during the night and through the following day, for a minimum of 16 hours. and to return the next day for photographs and evaluations.

The qualitative results obtained from the test of control example G and from examples H to K suggest that the rigid end seal itself and the spacing between the end seal and the fastening location of the button are important factors in operation. Visitors feel that the irritation attributable to strip end curling tends to increase when the separation between the location of the button clamp and the end seal becomes larger. In particular, by increasing the separation beyond 6 mm. , the strip ends begin to curl which leads to a noticeable red and a rubbing / scaling near the buttons. Additionally when the location of the button clamp is placed through the end seal, which is a zero separation, the strip begins to feel scratched and there is a noticeable redness again.

Example L Each strip member of Example L included two nylon monofilament yarns transversely placed in the surrounding fabric structure in a sinusoidal shape over a width of 31.8 mm. One monofilament thread was 80 denier and the other was 330 denier. The strip material had a width of 38.1 mm. Each strip member was cut with scissors to a length of 28.6 cms. and had an ultrasonically formed end seal adjoining each end edge. The end seal had a length of 12.7 mm. and a width of 38.1 mm. The buttons were separated by 25.4 cms. and the spacing between the end seals and the button attachment locations was around 3 mm.

The deflection resistance of 10 test specimens of these strip members was measured and found to have an average value of 439 grams, with a standard deviation of 85. 9 grams. The test specimens had a width of 21 mm. and a length of 12.7 mm.

Example M Each strip member of Example M was similar to those of Example L except for the resistance to deflection of the strip member.

The deflection resistance of 10 test specimens of the strip members of Example M was measured and found to have an average value of 227 grams, with a standard deviation of 44.2 grams. The test specimen had a width of 21 mm. and a length of 12.7 mm.

Example N Each strip member of Example N was similar to those of Example L except for the deflection resistance of the strip member. The deflection resistance of 10 test specimens of the strip members of Example N was measured and found to have an average value of 617 grams, with a standard deviation of 125.1 grams. The test specimens had a width of 21 mm. and a length of 12.7 mm. Each of the strip members of examples L to N were tested in combination with disposable absorbent undergarments as described in relation to the test of Examples A to C. A notching study was conducted using 10 female panelists having sizes of hip in the range of 109 to 152.4 cms. Each panelist tested each of the strip members from Example L to N. Each panelist was advised to wear a garment with pair of example strip members during the night and through the next day for a minimum of 16 hours and to return to next day for photographs and evaluations.

The qualitative results obtained from the test of Examples L to N suggest that resistance to deflection of the end seal is an important feature for the strip members that were tested. The results indicate to the applicants that the increased end seal stiffness reduced the amount of crimped and irritating strip ends to the usurium. By decreasing the stiffness of the end stamp below that of Example L, increased levels of red marking in dentation and irritation were observed. In addition, the end seals of Example N were found to curl more significantly than those of Example L as determined by noting whether the end was curled or not at a 45 degree angle or curled at an angle of more than 45. degrees.

The above detailed description has been given for the purposes of illustration. Therefore, a number of modifications and changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, alternate or optional features described as part of one modality may be used to give yet another modality. Additionally, two named components can represent parts of the same structure. Therefore the invention should not be limited by the specific embodiments described but only by the claims.

Claims (24)

1. A fastening system for use with a garment, the fastening system comprises: an elastomeric strip member having longitudinal and transverse axes, the first and second longitudinal end edges, the opposite side edges extending between the end edges, a first end region contiguous with the first end edge and a second end region end region contiguous with the second end edge, the elastomeric strip member comprises: a fabric structure comprising a plurality of fabric yarns; Y a monofilament yarn transversely placed within the fabric structure, the monofilament yarn has an effective width; a button attached to the strip member in the first end region and adapted to detachably attach to the garment; Y means for securing the second end region to the garment; wherein the strip member further comprises an end seal contiguous with the first end edge, the end seal having a width dimension at least as large as the effective width of the monofilament yarn and being substantially continuous through the width dimension, the yarns of the fabric being joined to each other in the end seal and the monofilament yarn being substantially mobilized in the end seal.

2. The fastening system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the button is attached to the strip member in a fastening location and the end seal is longitudinally spaced from the fastening location by a separation of no more than about 10 millimeters

3. The fastening system as claimed in clause 2, characterized in that the spacing is from 0 to about 6 mm.

4. The fastening system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the effective width of the monofilament yarn is less than a strip width defined between the side edges of the strip member.

5. The fastening system as claimed in clause 4, characterized in that the width dimension of the end seal is less than the width of the strip.

6. The fastening system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the end seal has a length dimension of more than 3 millimeters.

7. The fastening system as claimed in clause 6, characterized in that the end seal has a length dimension of at least about 10 millimeters.

8. The fastening system as claimed in clause 6, characterized in that the end seal has a value of resistance to deflection of at least about 200 grams.

9. The fastening system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the end seal has a value of resistance to deflection of at least about 200 grams.

10. The fastening system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the strip member comprises a plurality of monofilament threads.

11. The fastening system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the strip member has a strip width of at least about 30 millimeters.

12. The fastening system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the fabric yarns are adhered with melt to the monofilament yarn.

13. A fastening system comprising: an elastomeric strip member having the longitudinal and transverse axes, the first and second longitudinal end edges, the opposite side edges extending between the end edges, a first end region adjacent to the first end edge and a second end region at the end adjacent to the second end edge, the elastomeric strip member comprises: a fabric structure comprising a plurality of fabric yarns; Y a monofilament yarn placed transversely within the fabric structure, the monofilament yarn has an effective width; the first and second buttons attached to the strip member in the respective first and second end regions; Y wherein the strip member further comprises an end seal adjacent each of the first and second end edges, each end seal having a width dimension of at least as large as the effective width of the monofilament yarn and being substantially continuous across the width dimension, the fabric yarns being joined to each other at each end seal and the monofilament yarn being substantially immobilized at each end seal.

14. The fastening system as claimed in clause 13, characterized in that the buttons are attached to the strip member at the fastening locations and the end seals are spaced apart from the fastening locations by spacings of no more than about 10 mm. millimeters

15. The fastening system as claimed in clause 13, characterized in that the spacings are from 0 to about 6 mm.

16. The fastening system as claimed in clause 13, characterized in that the effective width of the monofilament yarn is less than a strip width defined between the side edges of the strip member.

17. The fastening system as claimed in clause 13, characterized in that the end seals have a longitudinal dimension of more than 3 millimeters.

18. The fastening system as claimed in clause 13, characterized in that the end seals have a length dimension of at least about 10 millimeters.

19. The fastening system as claimed in clause 13, characterized in that the end seals have a deflection resistance value of at least about 200 grams.

20. An absorbent article comprising: a garment having the first and second waist regions and an intermediate section which interconnects the waist regions, the garment defines a plurality of button holes in the first and second waist regions, the garment comprises a waterproof moisture barrier to the liquid, an absorbent body placed on the moisture barrier, and a liquid-permeable body-side liner bonded to the barrier layer and having the absorbent assembly between the side-to-body liner and the barrier in the form of a sandwich. humidity; a pair of elastomeric strip members, each of the strip members having longitudinal and transverse axes, the first and second longitudinal end edges, the opposite side edges extending between the end edges, a strip width defined between side edges, a first end region contiguous with the first end edge, a second end region contiguous with the second end edge, and an intermediate central region and interconnecting the first and second end regions, each elastomeric strip member comprises : a fabric structure comprising a plurality of fabric yarns; a monofilament yarn transversely placed within the fabric structure, the monofilament yarn having an effective width; the first and second buttons attached to each of the strip members in the respective first and second end regions, the buttons are adapted for releasable fastening to the button holes; wherein each of the strip members further comprises an end seal adjacent to each of the first and second end edges and each end seal has a width dimension at least as large as the effective width of the monofilament yarn and being substantially continuous across the width dimension, the fabric yarns being joined to each other at each end seal and the monofilament yarn being substantially immobilized at each end seal.

21. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 20, characterized in that the buttons are attached to the strip members in attachment locations and the end seals are longitudinally spaced from the fastening locations by spacings from 0 to about 6 mm .

22. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 20, characterized in that the end seals have a length dimension of more than 3 millimeters.

23. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 20, characterized in that the end seals have a value of resistance to deflection of at least about 200 grams.

24. A method for making a strip member comprising the steps of: providing a continuous weave of elastomeric strip material comprising a fabric structure and a monofilament yarn positioned transversely within the fabric structure in a sinusoidal manner: treating the discrete regions of the continuous fabric to form a plurality of joined areas wherein the fabric structure is itself joined to immobilize the monofilament yarn, each joined area having a length of at least 6 millimeters; transversely cutting the continuous fabric through the bonded areas to form a plurality of strip members, each strip member having the opposite end edges with a part of the joined area defining an end seal adjacent to each end edge, each End seal has a length of at least 3 millimeters and a deflection resistance value of more than 200 grams; Join a couple of buttons on each strip member. SUMMARY A fastening system for use with a garment incorporates elastomeric strip members comprising an integral monofilament yarn for transverse reinforcement and stability. The buttons are adapted to be detachably attached to the garment and are attached to the strip member. The virtually continuous end seals are contiguous with the end edges of each strip member and have a width dimension at least as large as an effective monofilament wire width. The cloth threads of the strip members are attached to each other at the end seals to virtually immobilize the monofilament yarn. The particular features contain the monofilament yarn in a manner that reduces the tendency of the ends of the strip members to curl during use.