WO2009111274A2 - Stratifié élastique - Google Patents

Stratifié élastique Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2009111274A2
WO2009111274A2 PCT/US2009/035365 US2009035365W WO2009111274A2 WO 2009111274 A2 WO2009111274 A2 WO 2009111274A2 US 2009035365 W US2009035365 W US 2009035365W WO 2009111274 A2 WO2009111274 A2 WO 2009111274A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
set forth
laminate
elastic
regions
fabric layer
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2009/035365
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2009111274A3 (fr
Inventor
Robert Ceusters
Johannes H.A. De Jong
Anne Verhaert
Martin Westerhuis
Original Assignee
Avery Dennison Corporation
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Avery Dennison Corporation filed Critical Avery Dennison Corporation
Publication of WO2009111274A2 publication Critical patent/WO2009111274A2/fr
Publication of WO2009111274A3 publication Critical patent/WO2009111274A3/fr

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
    • B32B27/12—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin next to a fibrous or filamentary layer
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/15577—Apparatus or processes for manufacturing
    • A61F13/15585—Apparatus or processes for manufacturing of babies' napkins, e.g. diapers
    • A61F13/15593—Apparatus or processes for manufacturing of babies' napkins, e.g. diapers having elastic ribbons fixed thereto; Devices for applying the ribbons
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/45—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the shape
    • A61F13/49—Absorbent articles specially adapted to be worn around the waist, e.g. diapers
    • A61F13/49007—Form-fitting, self-adjusting disposable diapers
    • A61F13/49009—Form-fitting, self-adjusting disposable diapers with elastic means
    • A61F13/49014—Form-fitting, self-adjusting disposable diapers with elastic means the elastic means is located at the side panels
    • A61F13/49015—Form-fitting, self-adjusting disposable diapers with elastic means the elastic means is located at the side panels the elastic means being elastic panels
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/45—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the shape
    • A61F13/49—Absorbent articles specially adapted to be worn around the waist, e.g. diapers
    • A61F13/49007—Form-fitting, self-adjusting disposable diapers
    • A61F13/49009—Form-fitting, self-adjusting disposable diapers with elastic means
    • A61F13/4902—Form-fitting, self-adjusting disposable diapers with elastic means characterised by the elastic material
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/56—Supporting or fastening means
    • A61F13/5622—Supporting or fastening means specially adapted for diapers or the like
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
    • B32B27/30—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin comprising vinyl (co)polymers; comprising acrylic (co)polymers
    • B32B27/302—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin comprising vinyl (co)polymers; comprising acrylic (co)polymers comprising aromatic vinyl (co)polymers, e.g. styrenic (co)polymers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
    • B32B27/30—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin comprising vinyl (co)polymers; comprising acrylic (co)polymers
    • B32B27/306—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin comprising vinyl (co)polymers; comprising acrylic (co)polymers comprising vinyl acetate or vinyl alcohol (co)polymers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
    • B32B27/30—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin comprising vinyl (co)polymers; comprising acrylic (co)polymers
    • B32B27/308—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin comprising vinyl (co)polymers; comprising acrylic (co)polymers comprising acrylic (co)polymers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
    • B32B27/32—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin comprising polyolefins
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
    • B32B27/40—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin comprising polyurethanes
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B3/00—Layered products comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products having particular features of form
    • B32B3/26—Layered products comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products having particular features of form characterised by a particular shape of the outline of the cross-section of a continuous layer; characterised by a layer with cavities or internal voids ; characterised by an apertured layer
    • B32B3/30—Layered products comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products having particular features of form characterised by a particular shape of the outline of the cross-section of a continuous layer; characterised by a layer with cavities or internal voids ; characterised by an apertured layer characterised by a layer formed with recesses or projections, e.g. hollows, grooves, protuberances, ribs
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/02—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by structural features of a fibrous or filamentary layer
    • B32B5/022—Non-woven fabric
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/22—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed
    • B32B5/24—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer
    • B32B5/26—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer another layer next to it also being fibrous or filamentary
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B7/00—Layered products characterised by the relation between layers; Layered products characterised by the relative orientation of features between layers, or by the relative values of a measurable parameter between layers, i.e. products comprising layers having different physical, chemical or physicochemical properties; Layered products characterised by the interconnection of layers
    • B32B7/04—Interconnection of layers
    • B32B7/05—Interconnection of layers the layers not being connected over the whole surface, e.g. discontinuous connection or patterned connection
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B7/00—Layered products characterised by the relation between layers; Layered products characterised by the relative orientation of features between layers, or by the relative values of a measurable parameter between layers, i.e. products comprising layers having different physical, chemical or physicochemical properties; Layered products characterised by the interconnection of layers
    • B32B7/04—Interconnection of layers
    • B32B7/12—Interconnection of layers using interposed adhesives or interposed materials with bonding properties
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
    • B32B2262/02—Synthetic macromolecular fibres
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
    • B32B2262/02—Synthetic macromolecular fibres
    • B32B2262/0253—Polyolefin fibres
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
    • B32B2262/02—Synthetic macromolecular fibres
    • B32B2262/0261—Polyamide fibres
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
    • B32B2262/02—Synthetic macromolecular fibres
    • B32B2262/0276—Polyester fibres
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
    • B32B2262/02—Synthetic macromolecular fibres
    • B32B2262/0292—Polyurethane fibres
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
    • B32B2262/14—Mixture of at least two fibres made of different materials
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2270/00—Resin or rubber layer containing a blend of at least two different polymers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/50—Properties of the layers or laminate having particular mechanical properties
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/50—Properties of the layers or laminate having particular mechanical properties
    • B32B2307/51—Elastic
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2555/00—Personal care
    • B32B2555/02—Diapers or napkins

Definitions

  • an elastic laminate comprising an elastic layer and at least one fabric layer, e.g., a nonwoven layer, laminated thereto.
  • an elastic laminate that elongates in a cross direction (CD) upon application of an elongation force in this direction and that recovers upon release of the elongation force.
  • CD cross direction
  • An elastic laminate can be used in a variety of situations where elasticity is required or desired for one reason or another.
  • an elastic laminate in the field of disposable absorbent articles, e.g., diapers, incontinence briefs, etc., an elastic laminate can be used as, or incorporated into, a side panel or a belt for attachment to a rear chassis portion.
  • a fastening tape, for attaching a rear chassis portion to a front chassis portion can also comprise a stretchable laminate.
  • a stretchable laminate can be used to form the diaper/brief chassis itself, or portions/regions thereof, e.g., waist regions in a front or rear chassis portion, leg-opening regions in a crotch portion, etc.
  • a fabric layer e.g., a nonwoven fabric layer, as the skin contact layer and/or the exposed layer.
  • the present invention provides an elastic laminate comprising an elastic layer and a first fabric layer laminated thereto.
  • the elastic layer includes an elastic material that has recoverable elongation properties in the cross direction (CD).
  • the first fabric layer has interruptions including a scored region that is a proximal region or a distal region relative to the elastic layer. And, the interruptions extend only partially through the thickness of the fabric layer with the remaining thickness being occupied by tendon regions.
  • the elastic laminate can include a second fabric layer laminated thereto.
  • the present invention provides a method of making the elastic laminate as previously noted.
  • the method comprises scoring the scored regions in the first fabric layer, and laminating the first fabric layer to the elastic layer.
  • the present invention provides a side panel having a proximal edge for attachment to a lateral edge of a rear portion of a chassis of an absorbent article, a distal edge, an upper edge, and a lower edge.
  • the side panel comprises the elastic laminate as previously described.
  • the present invention provides a fastening tape comprising a manufacturer end for connection to a rear chassis portion or a side panel of a disposable absorbent article, and a user end for selective attachment to a front portion of a disposable absorbent article by a user.
  • the fastening tape comprises the laminate as previously described.
  • the present invention provides a disposable absorbent article comprising a chassis having a front portion, a rear portion, and a crotch portion.
  • the disposable absorbent article further comprises the fastening tape as previously described, attached to the rear portion or a side panel attached thereto.
  • the present invention provides a belt comprising a manufacturer end for connection to a rear chassis portion of a disposable absorbent article, and a user end.
  • the belt comprises the elastic laminate as previously described.
  • the present invention provides a disposable absorbent article comprising a chassis having a front portion, a rear portion, and a crotch portion. The disposable absorbent article further comprises a pair of the belts as previously described, attached to the rear portion.
  • the present invention provides a diaper chassis having a front portion, a rear portion, and a crotch portion.
  • the chassis comprises the elastic laminate as previously described.
  • the present invention provides a disposable absorbent article comprising the previously noted chassis.
  • the present invention also provides a laminate as previously described, further comprising an RFID device.
  • the present invention provides various garment pieces such as a garment piece comprising the previously described laminate.
  • the garment piece may be a side panel.
  • the garment piece may be a fastening tape.
  • the garment piece may be a belt.
  • the garment piece may be a chassis.
  • the present invention provides a garment incorporating the one or more of the previously noted garment pieces.
  • Figures 1 A - 1 B, 2A - 2B, 3A - 3B, 4A - 4B, 5A - 5B, and 6A - 6B are schematic side views of a preferred embodiment elastic laminate in accordance with the present invention, with the laminate being non-elongated, e.g., relaxed, recovered, in the A figures and elongated in the B figures.
  • Figures 1 C - 1 D, 2C - 2D, 3C - 3D, 4C - 4D, 5C - 5D and 6C - 6H are close-up schematic views of interrupted regions of fabric layers, of the preferred embodiment laminates shown in the corresponding A - B figures.
  • Figures 7A - 7I are schematic side views of the fabric layers showing some of the possible arrangements of scored regions formed therein.
  • Figures 8A-8B show various scored regions, ruptured regions, and interruption patterns that may be provided in the fabric layers used in the preferred embodiment laminates.
  • Figures 9A - 9C are each side schematic views of an elastic layer in the preferred embodiment laminate.
  • Figures 10A - 10B are schematic views of preferred embodiment side panels including the elastic laminate
  • Figures 10C and 10D are schematic views of preferred embodiment absorbent disposable articles each of which has a pair of side panels installed thereon.
  • Figure 1 1 A is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment fastening tape including the elastic laminate
  • Figure 11 B is a schematic view of another preferred absorbent disposable article having a pair of the fastening tapes installed thereon.
  • Figures 12A - 12B are schematic views of preferred embodiment belts that each include the elastic laminate
  • Figures 12C and 12D are each a schematic view of another preferred absorbent disposable article with the belt(s) installed thereon.
  • Figure 13 is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment diaper chassis including the elastic laminate and/or having the laminate installed thereon.
  • Figures 14A - 14D, 15A - 15D, 16A - 16D, and 17A - 17D are schematic views of four forms of another preferred embodiment elastic laminate in accordance with the present invention.
  • the elastic laminate is shown in a relaxed, e.g., recovered, condition in the A and
  • Figures 14E, 15E, 16E, and 17E are close-up schematic views of scored fabric layers of each of the four laminate forms, respectively.
  • Figures 14F - 14G, 15F - 15G, 16F - 16G, and 17F - 17G are schematic diagrams of preferred embodiment methods of making the respective elastic laminates, these methods each comprising steps of making a stretchable laminate and then activating the stretchable laminate.
  • Figures 16H - 160 and Figures 17H - 170 are schematic side views of modified versions of the elastic laminates shown in Figures 16A - 16G and 17A - 17G in a relaxed condition.
  • Figures 18A and 18B schematically show several possible relative alignments between distal and proximal scores in the stretchable laminate and/or the elastic laminate depicted in Figures 14-17.
  • Figures 19A - 19H schematically depict possible patterns of differing score heights and possible height relationships between the distal and proximal scores in the stretchable laminate and/or the elastic laminate illustrated in Figures 14-17.
  • Figures 2OA - 2OD schematically show different score-rupture-strain arrangements used in the preferred embodiment laminates depicted in Figures 14-17.
  • Figures 21 A - 21 D schematically illustrate several possible rupture-strain patterns between corresponding distal and proximal scores in the preferred embodiment laminates of
  • Figures 22A - 22B are schematic views of preferred embodiment side panels including the previously noted stretchable laminates or the elastic laminates, and Figures
  • 22C and 22D are schematic views of additional preferred embodiment absorbent disposable articles each of which has a pair of the side panels installed thereon.
  • Figure 23A is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment fastening tape including the previously noted stretchable laminates or the elastic laminates
  • Figure 23B is a schematic view of another preferred embodiment absorbent disposable article having a pair of the fastening tapes installed thereon.
  • Figures 24A - 24B are schematic views of preferred embodiment belts that each include the previously described stretchable laminates or the elastic laminates, and Figures
  • 24C and 24D are each a schematic view of a preferred embodiment absorbent disposable article with the belt(s) installed thereon.
  • Figure 25 is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment diaper chassis including the stretchable laminates or the elastic laminates installed thereon.
  • an elastic laminate having a fabric layer, i.e., a nonwoven layer, with interruptions extending only partially through the layer thickness.
  • the interruptions comprise scored regions that can be formed prior to fabric-laminating steps and can also comprise ruptured regions that can be formed after fabric-laminating steps.
  • Tendon regions occupy the rest of the fabric-layer thickness, which can be strained to allow laminate elongation and recovery.
  • the elastic laminate can provide customized stretch profiles and/or can be constructed to accommodate a wide range of activation equipment.
  • Figures 1 A - 1 B, 2A - 2B, 3A - 3B, 4A - 4B, 5A - 5B, and 6A - 6B are schematic side views of a preferred embodiment elastic laminate 10 in accordance with the present invention, with the laminate 10 being non-elongated, e.g., relaxed or recovered, in the A figures and elongated in the B figures.
  • the preferred embodiment laminate 10 comprises a first fabric layer 30, a second fabric layer 40, and an elastic layer 20 disposed between the fabric layers 30/40.
  • Fabric segments 31/41 can be defined in the fabric layers 30/40, respectively.
  • Interruptions or interrupted regions 32/42 are preferably defined in the fabric layers 30/40, respectively.
  • Scores or scored regions 33/43 are preferably defined in the fabric layers 30/40, respectively.
  • tendons or tendon regions 34/44 are preferably defined in the fabric layers 30/40, respectively.
  • Figures 1C - 1 D, 2C - 2D, 3C - 3D, 4C - 4D 1 5C - 5D and 6C - 6H are close-up views of interrupted regions 32/42 of the fabric layers 30/40, of the laminates 10 shown in the corresponding A - B figures.
  • the interrupted regions 32/42 are shown non-elongated in the C figures (and in Figures 6E and 6G), and are shown elongated in the D figures (and in Figures 6F and 6H).
  • the scored regions 33/43 are distal regions.
  • the scored regions 33/43 are proximal regions.
  • the scored regions 33/43 are both distal and proximal regions.
  • the interruptions 32/42 comprise the scored regions 33/43, and in Figures 3A - 3D, 4A - 4D, and 6A - 6H, the interruptions 32/42 also comprise ruptured regions 35/45.
  • Tendon regions 34/44 and fabric segments 31/41 are also illustrated. These aspects are all described in greater detail herein.
  • Figures 7A - 7I are schematic side views of the fabric layers 30/40 showing some of the possible arrangements of the scored regions 33/43 in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figures 8A and 8B show different interruption patterns that can be used in the various embodiments of the invention.
  • the scored regions 33/43 have the same height, but the ruptured regions 35/45 cause the interruptions 32/42 to have differing heights.
  • the scored regions 33/43 have different heights, but the ruptured regions 35/45 cause the interruptions 32/42 to have the same height.
  • Figure 8A also shows a complete interruption 36/46, without a tendon region. Scores or scored regions 37/47, and ruptures or ruptured regions 38/48, without corresponding tendon region(s) are described in greater detail herein.
  • Figures 9A - 9C are each side schematic views of an elastic layer 20 used in the preferred embodiment laminate 10.
  • the elastic layer 20 in Figure 9A is a monolayer, i.e., skinless, film 21 ;
  • the elastic layer 20 in Figure 9B is a skinned film 21 with skins 22; and
  • the elastic layer 20 in Figure 9C is a film 21 with a fabric liner 23.
  • the elastic layer 20 can be adhesively bonded, extrusion bonded, or otherwise assembled with the fabric layers 30/40.
  • each fabric layer 30/40 will have a proximal side located closest to the elastic layer 20 and a distal side located away from the elastic layer 20.
  • the thickness of each fabric layer 30/40 is the distance between its proximal and distal sides.
  • the terms “elastic” and “inelastic” characterize the propensity of a layer or laminate to recover after elongation in the cross direction CD.
  • the term “elastic” means that a component can elongate without breaking to at least 150% of its original length upon application of a certain elongation force, and then recover at least 50% of the elongation upon release of the elongation force. For example, a 20 cm component is elastic if it can be elongated to 30 cm and then recover back to 25 cm or less. Of course, many elastic materials can be elongated much more and/or recover much more from elongation.
  • the term “nonelastic” means that component is not elastic.
  • the fabric layers 30/40 used in the preferred embodiment laminates or articles or components using such laminates can be nonwoven layers.
  • the first and/or second fabric layer 30/40 can be a spunlace nonwoven layer.
  • the first and/or second fabric layer 30/40 can be a carded nonwoven layer.
  • the first and/or second fabric layer 30/40 can be a spunbond nonwoven layer.
  • the layers 30/40 can comprise, for example, polyolefins, such as polyethylene and/or its copolymers, or polypropylene and/or its copolymers, or mixtures of the aforementioned polyolefins, polyurethanes, polyester, polyether or polyamide.
  • the nonwoven materials can comprise, for example, spunbonded webs, meltblown webs, air-laid layer webs, bonded carded webs, hydroentangled webs, wet-formed webs or any combination thereof.
  • the nonwoven layers can have a weight of from about 10 gsm to about 100 gsm and the layers 30/40 can vary in weight.
  • the layers 30/40 can be fabric monolayers that are a single layer of fabric rather than a laminate of a plurality of sublayers. For example, a monolayer structure wherein fibers or other filaments are fused or otherwise integrated into a single substrate layer can be employed. While monolayer constructions will be preferred in many situations, the layers 30/40 could alternatively have a multilayer construction, i.e., a compilation or lamination of layers wherein different layers are distinguishable and/or separable from one another.
  • the fabric layers 30/40 can be inherently elastic fabric layers. A fabric is inherently elastic when it comprises mostly elastic fibers. Elastic fabric layers 30/40, e.g., elastic nonwoven layers, can be significantly more expensive than inelastic fabric layers.
  • the fabric layers 30/40 can be dispensed from rolls (or other formats capable of continuous supply) for immediate lamination to the elastic layer 20, without intermediate steps or equipment.
  • the fabric layers 30/40 can be elasticized fabric layers.
  • the fabric layer 30 and/or the fabric layer 40 can each be made from an inelastic fabric, e.g., inelastic nonwoven fabric, that is manipulated to behave elastically by elasticizing steps.
  • the elasticizing steps can comprise heating the inelastic fabric in an oven and simultaneously drawing it in the machine direction (MD). This heating-drawing reorients most of the fabric's inelastic fibers in the machine direction (MD).
  • the elasticizing steps can be performed in-line with film-formation steps and/or fabric-lamination steps. But off-line performance, and providing the fabric layers in a format suitable for continuous supply, may be best.
  • elasticized fabrics are often better at insuring uniaxial elasticity, i.e., elastic behavior in the cross direction (CD) but not the machine direction (MD), than inherently elastic fabrics.
  • the first and/or second fabric layers 30/40 can be nonelastic fabric layers. In some cases, the fabric layer 30/40 will be inherently extendable (although not elastic). [0054]
  • the fabric layer 30/40 can be permanently elongated to extend-contract in a pleat- like fashion during laminate elongation-recovery. Such permanent elongation can be accomplished by incremental stretching, e.g., ring-rolling, region-specific stretching, and/or integrative stretching, such as described in US provisional patent application 61/032,647. Alternatively, an elastic layer can be attached to fabric layer 30/40 in an elongated state.
  • the fabric layer 30/40 can be provided with interruptions that extend only partially through the fabric thickness, e.g., 20%, 40%, 80%, 90%, etc., to provide the fabric with enough "give" to extend during laminate elongation.
  • the partial interruptions can be in the form of scores, in the form of ruptures, or any other suitable form.
  • the scored portions are preferably formed by severing, e.g., cutting, slitting, scoring, etc., by means of a tool, e.g., rotary or stationary knife or blade, applying a force in the normal direction (ND) and are defined primarily by cleanly severed fibers.
  • the ruptured portions are preferably formed by rupturing, e.g., breaking, tearing, ripping, fracturing, etc., by applying a tension in the cross direction (CD) and are defined primarily by uneven and ruptured fibers.
  • rupturing e.g., breaking, tearing, ripping, fracturing, etc.
  • the fabric layer 30/40 can be provided with interruptions that extend completely through the fabric thickness.
  • the fabric layers 30/40 can be divided into separate fabric segments that diverge upon laminate elongation and converge upon laminate recovery.
  • the interruptions can comprise complete cuts, a scored portion and a ruptured portion, or complete ruptures.
  • the fabric layer 30/40 can have more than just a portion or its entirety mechanically altered.
  • the fabric layer 30 and the fabric layer 40 can be supplied in a format suitable for continuous supply, e.g., a roll. Thus, in-line production of the fabric layer 30 and/or the fabric layer 40 is possible and contemplated.
  • the fabric layers 30 and 40 can be the same fabric, and supplied from the same stock. If supplied from the same stock, a single roll can be split (in-line or off-line) to provide the fabric layers 30/40.
  • the first fabric layer 30 may extend across the entire laminate width in the cross direction (CD).
  • the second fabric layer 40 may extend across the entire laminate width in the cross direction (CD). It is also contemplated that the first fabric layer 30 may not extend across the entire laminate width in the cross direction (CD). Similarly, the second fabric layer 40 may not extend across the entire laminate width in the cross direction (CD). Alternatively, the first fabric layer 30 and/or the second fabric layer 40 may extend across a portion of the laminate width in the cross direction (CD).
  • the elastic layer 20 generally comprises a layer or film of an elastic material or a layer exhibiting elastic properties.
  • the elastic layer 20 may also comprise one or more fabric layers, and/or one or more skin layers.
  • the elastic layer 20 can comprise an elastomeric polymer and the fabric layer(s) can each comprise a nonelastomeric polymer.
  • the elastic material can comprise block copolymers (A-B or A-B-A block copolymers), such as styrene/isoprene, butadiene or ethylene-butylene/styrene (SIS, SBS or SEBS).
  • the elastic layer 20 can comprise a vinyl arene-containing block copolymer, and be substantially free of a tackifying amount of a tackifier.
  • the elastic material can be a mixture including SBS and/or SEBS with (or without) an additive including one or more of polystyrene, poly-(alpha-methyl)styrene, an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, an ethylene- methyl(meth)acrylate copolymer, an ethylene-ethyl(meth)acrylate copolymer, an ethylene- (meth)acrylic acid copolymer.
  • the elastic layer 20 can be formed from any suitable polyvinyl arene) and poly( conjugated diene) or poly(olefinic), for example, elastomeric (polystyrene/poly(ethylene- butylene)/polystyrene) (SEBS) block copolymers and/or
  • polystyrene/poly(butadiene)/polystyrene) (SBS) block copolymers are, for example, those known as KRATON ® materials, such as, for example KRATON® G-1657, which are available from KRATON Polymers of Houston, Texas.
  • KRATON ® block copolymers are available in a variety of different formula numbers and grades.
  • a compounded composition containing a suitable elastomeric copolymer is DRYFLEX® 938115, available from VTC Elastoteknik AB of Amal, Sweden.
  • DRYFLEX ® 9381 15 is a proprietary blend of SEBS and other polymers.
  • the elastic layer can include one or more skin layers.
  • the elastic layer can also include one or more skinless layers or film.
  • the fabric liner(s) or layer(s) 23 can be nonwoven layers. They can be made of the same material as the fabric layers 30 and 40, as this may conveniently allow them to be made from the same stock. But in many situations, it will be more prudent to use a different fabric for the liner(s) 23, due to the different functions.
  • the fabric layers, if used in the elastic layer 20 can comprise, for example, polyolefins, such as polyethylene and/or its copolymers, or polypropylene and/or its copolymers, or mixtures of the aforementioned polyolefins, polyurethanes, polyester, polyether or polyamide.
  • the nonwoven materials can comprise, for example, spunbonded webs, meltblown webs, air-laid layer webs, bonded carded webs, hydroentangled webs, wet- formed webs or any combination thereof.
  • the nonwoven layers can have a weight of from about 10 gsm to about 100 gsm and the fabric layers can vary in weight.
  • the fabric layer(s) can be less elastic than the elastic layer, inelastic, non-stretchable, and/or nondeformable.
  • the elastic layer 20 may comprise an elastic film 21 and skin layers 22 therefor.
  • the elastic layer 20 may comprise a skinless elastic film 21.
  • the elastic layer 20 may comprise an elastic film 21 and a fabric cover 23 therefor.
  • the elastic layer 20 may comprise an unaperatured elastic film 21.
  • the elastic layer 20 can comprise these in nearly any combination and/or configuration.
  • the elastic laminate 10 can include one or more adhesive layer(s) and/or an adhesive sublayer.
  • the adhesive layer or sublayer can be situated between the first fabric layer 30 and the elastic layer 20.
  • the adhesive sublayer can extend completely or only partially across the laminate's width in the cross direction (CD).
  • the adhesive sublayer can also be situated between the second fabric layer 40 and the elastic layer 20.
  • the adhesive sublayer can extend completely or only partially across the laminate's width in the cross direction (CD).
  • the adhesive layers and sublayers can comprise hot-melt adhesives, e.g., hot- melt rubber-based materials or acrylic-based materials, and/or non-hot-melt adhesives, such as pressure sensitive adhesives, polyurethane adhesives and structural adhesives.
  • the adhesive can be solid or continuous in the bonding area, or it can be applied in intermittent adhesive patterns, e g , stripes, spots, swirls, islands, grids, checkerboard, voids, random, semi-random, etc
  • the present invention and its preferred embodiments include a wide range of additional aspects and variations
  • the elastic layer 20 is made of an elastic material that has recoverable elongation properties in the cross direction (CD)
  • the first fabric layer 30 has interruptions 32 including a scored region 33 that is a proximal region or a distal region
  • the interruptions 32 extend only partially through the layer thickness with the remaining thickness being occupied by tendon regions 34
  • the interruptions 32 separate the first fabric layer 30 into fabric segments 31 that diverge upon laminate elongation and converge upon laminate recovery
  • the tendon regions 34 may be mechanically prestrained to allow extension upon laminate elongation and diverg
  • each interruption 32 may consist of the scored region 33 Also, each interruption 32 may comprise a rupture region 35 positioned between the scored region 33 and the tendon region 34 Some of the interruptions 32 may consist of the scored region 33, whereby the thickness sum of each proximal region 33/34 and its corresponding distal region 34/33 is approximately equal to the thickness of the first fabric layer 30, and some of the interruptions 32 comprise a rupture region 35 positioned between the scored region 33 and the tendon region 34 It is also contemplated that the interruptions in the first fabric layer 30 may be without corresponding tendon regions and so be complete interruptions 36 In this version, the interruptions can comprise scored regions 37 not having corresponding tendons Also, the interruptions 36 can comprise ruptured regions 38 not having corresponding tendons.
  • a scored region 37 may extend from the distal surface of the first fabric layer 30 to a ruptured region 38 and the ruptured region 38 may extend from the scored region 37 to the elastic layer 20.
  • the scored region 37 may extend from the elastic layer 20 to a ruptured region 38 and the ruptured region 38 may extend from the scored region 37 to the distal surface of the first fabric layer 30.
  • the second fabric layer 40 may include interruptions 42.
  • the interruptions 42 in the second fabric layer 40 may extend partially through the layer thickness.
  • the interruptions 42 in the second fabric layer 40 may each include a scored region 43 that partially separates the second fabric layer 40 into fabric segments 41 that diverge upon laminate elongation and converge upon laminate recovery.
  • the second fabric layer 40 may include tendon regions 44 substantially aligned with corresponding scored regions 43 in the cross direction (CD), and the tendon regions 44 spanning between the fabric segments 41 in the cross direction (CD) during separation thereof upon laminate elongation.
  • Each scored region 43 may constitute one of a proximal region or a distal region relative to the elastic layer 20, and the corresponding tendon region 44 may constitute the other of a proximal region or a distal region relative to the elastic layer 20.
  • the tendon regions 44 of the second fabric layer 40 may be mechanically prestrained to allow extension upon laminate elongation and divergence of the fabric segments 41.
  • the tendon regions 44 of the second fabric layer 40 may be mechanically unstrained prior to initial laminate elongation.
  • the tendon regions 44 of the second fabric layer 40 may behave elastically during laminate elongation-recovery.
  • the scored regions 43 of the second fabric layer 40 may be proximal regions and the tendon regions 44 can be distal regions.
  • the scored regions 43 can be distal regions and the tendon regions 44 can be proximal regions.
  • Some of the scored regions 43 of the second fabric layer 40 may be proximal regions with corresponding distal tendon regions 44, and the rest of the scored regions 43 can be distal regions with corresponding proximal tendon regions 44.
  • each interruption 42 can consist of the scored region 43, whereby the thickness sum of each proximal region 43/44 and its corresponding distal region 44/43 is approximately equal to the thickness of the second fabric layer 40.
  • Each interruption 42 may comprise a rupture region 45 positioned between the scored region 43 and the tendon region 44.
  • Some of the interruptions 42 may consist of the scored region 43, whereby the thickness sum of each proximal region 43/44 and its corresponding distal region 44/43 is approximately equal to the thickness of the second fabric layer 40, and some of the interruptions 42 comprise a rupture region 45 positioned between the scored region 43 and the tendon region 44.
  • the interruptions in the second fabric layer 40 may be without corresponding tendon regions and so be interruptions 46 that extend entirely through the layer thickness.
  • the interruptions 46 may comprise scored regions 47 without corresponding tendon regions.
  • the interruptions 46 may comprise ruptured regions 48 without corresponding tendons.
  • the scored region 47 may extend from the distal surface of the second fabric layer 40 to a rupture region 48 and the rupture region 48 may extend from the scored region 47 to the elastic layer 20.
  • the scored region 47 may extend from the elastic layer 20 to the rupture region 48 and the rupture region 48 may extend from the scored region 47 to the distal surface of the second fabric layer 40.
  • the interruptions 32 in the first fabric layer 30 and the interruptions 42 in the second fabric layer 40 may be symmetrically situated to each other about the elastic layer 20.
  • the interruptions 32 in the first fabric layer 30 and the interruptions 42 in the second fabric layer 40 may instead be nonsymmetrical ⁇ situated relative to each other about the elastic layer 20.
  • the interruptions 32 in the first fabric layer 30 and the interruptions 42 in the second fabric layer 40 may be staggered relative to each other about the elastic layer 20.
  • the interruptions 32/42 may extend 20% to 90% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40 and the tendon regions 34/44 may extend 80% to 10% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40. In certain embodiments, the interruptions 32/42 may extend 30% to 90% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40 and the tendon regions 34/44 may extend 70% to 10% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40. In other embodiments, the interruptions 32/42 may extend 40% to 90% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40 and the tendon regions 34/44 may extend 60% to 10% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40.
  • the interruptions 32/42 may extend 50% to 90% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40 and the tendon regions 34/44 may extend 50% to 10% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40. In still further other embodiments, the interruptions 32/42 may extend 60% to 90% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40 and the tendon regions 34/44 may extend 40% to 10% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40. The interruptions 32/42 may extend 70% to 90% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40 and the tendon regions 34/44 may extend 30% to 10% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40. [0078] Concerning the scored regions 33/43, the scored regions 33/43 may extend at least 10% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40.
  • the scored regions 33/43 may extend at least 20% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40. In other versions, the scored regions 33/43 may extend at least 30% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40. In other embodiments, the scored regions 33/43 may extend at least 40% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40. In still other embodiments, the scored regions 33/43 may extend at least 50% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40. And, in other embodiments, the scored regions 33/43 may extend at least 60% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the scored regions 33/43 may extend at least 70% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40. And, in other embodiments, the scored regions 33/43 may extend at least 80% through the thickness of the fabric layer 30/40.
  • the interruptions 32/42 may have substantially the same height across the fabric layer 30/40.
  • the interruptions 32/42 may have differing heights across the fabric layer 30/40.
  • the height of the interruptions 32/42 may increase and then decrease in the cross direction (CD).
  • the height of the interruptions 32/42 may decrease and then increase in the cross direction (CD).
  • the height of the interruptions 32/42 may have stepped heights in the cross direction (CD).
  • the height of the interruptions 32/42 may fluctuate in the cross direction (CD).
  • the interruption heights may differ in a regular manner.
  • the interruption heights may differ in an irregular manner.
  • the preferred embodiments include a wide array of different configurations for the interruptions.
  • the scored regions 33/43 may have substantially the same height across the fabric layer 30/40. In other embodiments, the scored regions 33/43 have differing heights across the fabric layer 30/40 and ruptured regions 35/45 also have differing heights accounting for the same interruption heights. The scored regions 33/43 may have differing heights across the fabric layer 30/40. The scored regions 33/43 may have the same heights across the fabric layer 30/40, and ruptured regions 35/45 may have differing heights accounting for the differing interruption heights.
  • the preferred embodiments include a wide range of variations.
  • the interruptions 32/42 and the tendon regions 34/44 may extend in a path non-parallel to the cross direction (CD).
  • Other configurations are contemplated in which the interruptions 32/42 and the tendon regions 34/44 may also extend in a path substantially parallel to the machine direction (MD).
  • the interruptions 32/42 and the tendon regions 34/44 may extend in a path at an acute angle relative to the machine direction (MD).
  • the paths of respective interruptions 32/42 and tendon regions 34/44 may intersect.
  • the interruptions 32/42 and the tendon regions 34/44 may be substantially continuously spaced in the cross direction (CD).
  • the interruptions 32/42 and the tendon regions 34/44 may be noncontinuously spaced in the cross direction (CD). Adjacent interruptions 32/42 and adjacent tendon regions 34/44 may be spaced apart a distance between about 1 millimeter and about 10 millimeters in the cross direction (CD). The interruptions 32/42 and the tendon regions 34/44 may extend continuously across the span of the machine direction (MD). The interruptions 32/42 and the tendon regions 34/44 may extend noncontinuously across the span in the machine direction (MD).
  • the elastic layer 20 may be substantially coextensive with the fabric layer(s) 30/40 in the cross direction (CD).
  • the elastic layer 20 may instead be non-coextensive with the fabric layer(s) 30/40 in the cross direction (CD).
  • the elastic layer 20 may be substantially coextensive or non-coextensive with the fabric layer(s) 30/40 in the machine direction (MD).
  • the interruptions 32/42 and the tendon regions 34/44 may be coextensive with the elastic layer 20.
  • the interruptions 32/42 and the tendon regions 34/44 may be non-coextensive with the elastic layer 20.
  • the interruptions 32/42 and the tendon regions 34/44 may not extend beyond the extent of the elastic layer 20 in the cross- direction (CD).
  • the interruptions 32/42 and the tendon regions 34/44 may extend almost, but not quite the full cross-extent of the elastic layer 20 to leave an uninterrupted margin aligned with each lateral edge of the elastic layer 20.
  • the uninterrupted margins typically have a width in the range of 2 mm to 20 mm.
  • the preferred embodiment elastic laminate 10 can be made as a laminate sheet having a continuous length and capable of continuous supply. Such a format is compatible with mass production and thus often desired by product manufacturers.
  • the laminate sheet can have a cross-direction construction corresponding to a single elastic laminate 10. In this case, the laminate sheet can be separated, preferably in the machine direction (MD), into a plurality of laminate pieces for product incorporation.
  • the laminate sheet can instead have a cross-direction construction corresponding to plurality of elastic laminates 10. In this configuration, the sheet is separated both in the cross direction (CD) and in the machine direction (MD) to provide a plurality of laminate pieces for product incorporation.
  • the laminate manufacturer could separate the sheet in the machine direction (MD), compile it in a continuous format suitable for continuous supply, e.g. a roll, and ship it to a product manufacturer, e.g., a diaper manufacture.
  • the product manufacturer e.g., diaper manufacturer, could perform the cross-direction separation in-line (or off-line) from the rest of the product assembly steps.
  • the width, i.e., cross-direction dimension, of the outermost zones can correspond to the width of the outermost zones of the laminate 10.
  • Intermediate sheet zones, which will be divided to form a laminate's outermost zone, can correspond to twice this width.
  • the laminate sheet can be made for division into an even number of elastic laminates 10 or for division into an odd number of elastic laminates 10.
  • the sheet's centerline in the machine direction (MD)) can pass through a fabric layer section or an elastic layer section.
  • a method of making the elastic laminate 10 and/or the laminate sheet can comprise the steps of laminating the first fabric layer 30 to the elastic layer 20, or a portion thereof, and/or laminating the second fabric layer 40 to the elastic layer 20, a portion thereof, or the intermediate assembly of the first fabric layer 30 and the elastic layer 20.
  • Laminate-making steps can be performed by sequentially compiling the fabric layers 30/40 and elastic layer 20. The compiling steps can be performed in-line with each other if an adequate number of dispensing stations, splitters, and/or adhesive-coating stations are available. If so, the slowest steps, e.g., film extrusion and/or film lamination, will dictate production rate.
  • the method can include the step of compiling some (but not all) of the layers 30/40 and elastic layer 20 in a format suitable for continuous supply, e.g., a roll. The compiled layers can then later be dispensed from the continuous- supply-format for performance of the remaining steps.
  • a preferred method of forming the previously described elastic laminate 10 is as follows. After providing a first layer 30 and an elastic layer 20, the scored regions 33 in the first fabric layer 30 are formed; and then the first fabric layer 30 is laminated to the elastic layer 20.
  • the first-fabric-scoring step may be performed before the first-fabric- laminating step.
  • the method may also comprise a step of mechanically straining any or all of the tendon regions 34.
  • the tendon-straining step may be performed after the first-fabric- scoring step.
  • the tendon-straining step may also be performed after the first-fabric- laminating step.
  • the tendon-straining step may comprise integrative stretching as described in US provisional patent application 61/032,647.
  • the tendon-straining step may comprise locally stretching.
  • the tendon-straining step may be performed by an end user of a garment into which the laminate 10 is incorporated.
  • the tendon-straining step may comprise incrementally stretching laminate portion(s) coextensive with the elastic layer 20.
  • the incrementally stretching step may comprise pressing a series of stretching elements against the fabric layers 30/40 along the cross direction (CD).
  • the previously described method preferably may also comprise a step of laminating the second fabric layer 40 to the elastic layer 20.
  • the first-fabric-laminating step and the second-fabric-laminating step may be performed substantially simultaneously.
  • the method may also involve a step of scoring the scored regions 43 in the second fabric layer 40.
  • the second-fabric-scoring step may be performed before the first-fabric-laminating step.
  • the first-fabric-scoring step and the second-fabric-scoring step can be performed substantially simultaneously. Either of these methods can further comprise a step of mechanically straining the tendon regions 44 in the second fabric layer 40.
  • the tendon-straining step may be performed after the second-fabric-scoring step.
  • the tendon-straining step may be performed after the second-fab ⁇ c-laminating step.
  • the tendon- straining step may comprise integrative stretching as previously noted.
  • the tendon-straining step may comprise locally stretching laminate portion(s) coextensive with the elastic layer 20.
  • the tendon-straining step may be performed by an end user of a diaper product into which the laminate 10 is incorporated.
  • the tendon-straining step may comprise incremental stretching laminate portion(s) coextensive with the elastic layer 20.
  • the incrementally stretching step may comprise pressing a series of stretching elements against the fabric layers 30/40 along the cross direction (CD).
  • the tendon-straining step on the first fabric layer 30 can be performed at substantially the same time as the tendon-straining step on the second fabric layer 40.
  • the fabric-scoring step(s) and the fabric-laminating(s) steps can be performed in-line.
  • the fabric-scoring step(s) and the tendon-straining step(s) can be performed in-line.
  • the fabric-laminating step(s) and the tendon-straining(s) steps may be performed in-line.
  • the present invention includes a wide array of variations of these aspects and methods.
  • a garment piece 60, 70, 80, 90 may comprise the laminate 10.
  • the laminate 10 preferably comprises fabric layers 30/40 and an elastic layer 20 disposed therebetween.
  • the garment piece may be in the form of a side panel 60.
  • the garment piece may be in the form of a fastening tape 70.
  • the garment piece may be in the form of a belt 80.
  • the garment piece may be in the form of a chassis 90. It is also contemplated that a garment 65, 75, 85, 95 may incorporate one or more of the garment piece(s) 60, 70, 80, 90 as previously described. Such a garment 65, 75, 85, 95 may be in the form of a disposable absorbent article. Particularly preferred garments and garment pieces are described as follows.
  • a diaper side panel 60 can include the elastic laminate 10, as shown in Figures 10A - 10B.
  • the illustrated side panel 60 comprises a proximal edge 61 , a distal edge 62, an upper edge 63, and a lower edge 64.
  • the laminate's cross direction (CD) corresponds to the proximal-distal direction, whereby the panel 60 elongates and recovers in this direction.
  • the machine direction (MD) is the upper-lower direction.
  • the side panel 60 can carry fastening means 66 adjacent its distal edge 62.
  • a fastening tape (not shown) as described herein can be attached to its distal edge 62.
  • the side panel 60 may further comprise a fastener 66.
  • Figures 10C - 10D illustrate an absorbent article 76 comprising a chassis having a front portion 77, a rear portion 78, and a crotch portion 79 extending between portions 77 and 78.
  • the proximal edge 61 of a side panel 60 is joined to each lateral edge of the chassis rear portion 78.
  • the upper edge 63 and/or the lower edge 64 of the side panel 60 can be convexly curved.
  • the upper edge 63 and the lower edge 64 can be parallel and substantially perpendicular to the proximal edge 61 and/or the distal edge 62.
  • the side panel 60 has a proximal edge 61 for attachment to a lateral edge of a rear portion of a chassis of an absorbent article, a distal edge 62, an upper edge 63, and a lower edge 64; wherein the side panel 60 comprises the elastic laminate 10.
  • the cross direction (CD) can be the proximal-distal direction and/or the machine direction (MD) can be the upper-lower direction.
  • a side panel 60 may be provided having an outer edge of an inelastic zone of the elastic laminate 10 which forms the proximal edge 61 and an outer edge of another inelastic zone of the elastic laminate 10 which forms the distal edge 62.
  • Fastening Tape 70
  • a diaper fastening tape 70 having a manufacturer end 71 and a user end 72, can include the elastic laminate 10 (Figure 11A).
  • the tape's length i.e. the dimension extending between the manufacturer end 71 and the user end 72, corresponds to the laminate's cross direction (CD) whereby it elongates-recovers in this direction.
  • the fastening tape 70 can carry fastening means 73 adjacent its user end 72.
  • An absorbent article 76 comprising a chassis having a front portion 77, a rear portion 78, and a crotch portion 79, can include a pair of the fastening tapes 70 ( Figure 11 B).
  • Each tape 70 would be attached, via its manufacturer's end 71 to a respective edge of the diaper's rear portion 78. Alternatively, each tape can be attached to the distal edge of a side panel (not shown). During use of the article 76, the user end 72 of each tape 70 can be selectively attached, via one or more fastening means 73, to the diaper's front portion 77.
  • a wide array of disposable absorbent articles may further comprise the fastening tape 70 or variations thereof.
  • a belt 80 can include an elastic laminate 10, as shown in Figures 12A - 12B.
  • the belt's length i.e., direction between a manufacturer end 81 and a user end 82, corresponds to the laminate's cross direction (CD) whereby the belt 80 elongates-recovers in this direction.
  • At least one belt 80 ( Figure 12B) can comprise fastening means 83 adjacent its user end 82.
  • an absorbent disposable article 76 comprising a chassis having a front portion 77, a rear portion 78, and a crotch portion 79 therebetween, the manufacturer end 81 of each belt 80 is joined to respective edges of the rear portion 78 as depicted in Figure 12C.
  • One belt 80 (Figure 12A) can be folded around the user's waist and the other belt 80 ( Figure 12B) can be folded thereover and secured to the other belt by the fastening means 83.
  • a laminate 10 with an elastic film layer offset towards the user's end 82 may be preferred for such belts 80.
  • a single belt 80 can have its bottom edge attached to the top edge of the rear portion 78 of a disposable absorbent article 76 as depicted in Figure 12D. At least one end section of the belt 80 comprises a fastening means 83 adjacent its user end 82. In use, the belt 80 will extend completely around the user's waist, and end sections can be folded over each other and secured by the fastening means 83 ( Figure 12D).
  • a diaper chassis 90 itself can incorporate one or more of the preferred embodiment elastic laminate(s) 10, as shown in Figure 13.
  • the chassis 90 includes a front portion 97, a rear portion 98, a crotch portion 99, and side panels.
  • the side panels can be in the form of the previously described side panels 60.
  • the side panels are attached to each lateral edge of the rear portion 98.
  • the elastic laminate 10 can be at least part of the front portion 97 and/or at least part of the rear portion 98 to form an elastic waist for a diaper 96.
  • the laminate's cross direction (CD) would be perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the chassis 90.
  • the elastic laminate 10 can be part of the crotch portion 99 to form elastic leg opening regions for the diaper 96, and its cross direction (CD) would run parallel to the chassis front-rear direction. It might also be possible for the elastic laminate 10 to form the entire chassis 90 (or other item), if the layer materials do not interfere with other intended properties, e.g., fluid absorption.
  • a laminate 10 and/or any of the sheets, garments, or garment pieces described herein may further comprise an RFID device 100.
  • a laminate 10 comprising a first fabric layer 30, a second fabric layer 40, and an elastic layer 20 therebetween, can be provided in which the laminate 10 further comprises an RFID device 100.
  • the RFID device 100 is preferably positioned between the elastic layer 20 and the fabric layer 30/40 however, the present invention includes numerous other arrangements. Additional embodiments are contemplated in which the laminate 10 includes an inelastic portion and wherein the RFID device 100 is situated in the inelastic portion.
  • the fabric layer 30/40 may include a non-scored portion and wherein the RFID device 100 is situated in this non-scored portion.
  • the invention also includes a laminate 10, a garment piece 60, 70, 80, 90 and/or a garment 65, 75, 85, 95 as previously described for example in which the RFID device 100 has information written to it prior to incorporation into the laminate, the garment piece, or the garment. Alternatively or in addition, the RFID device 100 has information written to it after incorporation into the laminate, the garment piece, or the garment. Alternatively or in addition, the RFID device 100 has information written to it during incorporation into the laminate, the garment piece, or the garment.
  • the information written to the RFID device 100 may comprise information about the elastic layer 20 and/or the fabric layer(s) 30/40, such as, for example, stock/batch, specifications, source, and/or purchase order information. Furthermore, the information written to the RFID device 100 may comprise information about manufacture, such as, for example, place of manufacture, date of manufacture, machine operating personnel, and/or machine settings. Moreover, the information written to the RFID device 100 may comprise information about an intended customer, such as, for example, customer name, customer location, and/or customer contact. It is also contemplated that the information written to the RFID device 100 may include information about inventory, such as, for example, product number, and/or store-shelf counting mechanism. In addition, the information written to the RFID device 100 may comprise information about an end user, such as, for example, name, medication, dietary restrictions, last-change time, emergency contact information, allergies, living will provisions, and/or temperature.
  • the RFID can be initiated or otherwise activated in numerous fashions.
  • the RFID device 100 is activatable by, for example, moisture, gasses, breathing movement, temperature, and/or movement through a security boundary.
  • the RFID may also comprise additional components.
  • the RFID device 100 may include a sensor and store information sensed by the sensor, such as, for example, temperature, breathing, pulse, and/or movement/location.
  • the RFID device 100 can be configured to operate in numerous ways.
  • the RFID device 100 may be configured to use an operating parameter that is changed upon occurrence of a predetermined event such as, for example, activation, unfolding, moisture, temperature, and/or movement through a security boundary.
  • the RFID device 100 may include an alterable portion that, upon the occurrence of a predetermined event (e.g., physical, chemical, electric, etc.), the device is inactivated. Moreover, the alterable portion may affect the range in which the device may be read. It is also contemplated that the RFID device 100 can be configured so that a user can inactivate the alterable portion so that the device 100 cannot be read at a long range. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the RFID device 100 may include a permanent portion that remains activatable. In this regard, the permanent portion may be configured such that such portion cannot be read at long range without the alterable portion prior to inactivation. In addition, it is contemplated that the alterable portion may be antennaless and the permanent portion may include an antenna.
  • a predetermined event e.g., physical, chemical, electric, etc.
  • a stretchable laminate 108 and/or an elastic laminate 110 having a series of distal scores and a series of proximal scores on its fabric layer(s)
  • the stretchable laminate there is a span of fabric between the distal and proximal scores that is continuous in the cross-direction (CD) and the machine direction (MD)
  • CD cross-direction
  • MD machine direction
  • tendon regions between the distal and proximal scores are mechanically strained and/or ruptured
  • the preferred embodiment stretchable laminate 108 and the elastic laminate 110 comprise a first fabric layer 130, a second fabric layer 140, and an elastic layer 120 disposed between the first and second fabric layers 130 and 140, respectively
  • Figures 14A - 14D, 15A - 15D, 16A - 16D, and 17A - 17D are schematic views of four forms of the preferred embodiment elastic laminate 110
  • the elastic laminate 110 is shown in a relaxed, e g , recovered, condition in the A and B figures, and is shown in an elongated condition in the C and D figures
  • the laminate's machine direction (MD) and cross direction (CD) dimensions being shown in the A and C figures
  • the laminate's cross direction (CD) and normal direction (ND) dimensions being shown in the B and D figures
  • Figures 14E, 15E, 16E, and 17E are close-up schematic views of scored fabric layers of each of the four laminate forms, respectively Figures 14F - 14G, 15F - 15G 1 16F - 16G, and 17F -
  • Figures 18A and 18B schematically depict various possible relative alignments between distal and proximal scores in the stretchable laminate 108 and/or the elastic laminate 110.
  • Figures 19A - 19H schematically illustrate possible patterns of differing score heights and possible height relationships between the distal and proximal scores in the stretchable laminate 108 and/or the elastic laminate 110.
  • Figures 2OA - 2OD schematically illustrate different score-rupture-strain arrangements.
  • Figures 21 A - 21 D schematically show some possible rupture-strain patterns between corresponding distal and proximal scores.
  • the stretchable laminate 108 comprises a film layer 120 including at least an elastic portion 121 and a first fabric layer 130 laminated to a first surface of the film layer 120.
  • the first fabric layer 130 has a series of distal scores 134, a series of proximal scores 135, and preferably, a span of interrupted fabric in the cross-direction (CD) and the machine direction (MD).
  • the elastic laminate 110 can be formed by activating the stretchable laminate 108.
  • the elastic laminate 110 may comprise a film layer 120 including at least an elastic portion 121 and a first fabric layer 130 laminated to a first surface of the film layer
  • the first fabric layer 130 has a series of distal scores 134 and a series of proximal scores 135.
  • a rupture 136 and/or a strained tendon 137 may extend between each distal score 134 and a corresponding proximal score 135 to separate the first fabric layer 130 into segments 138 which diverge upon laminate elongation and converge upon laminate recovery.
  • the first fabric layer 130 may be a nonwoven fabric.
  • the first fabric layer 130 may be an elasticized nonwoven fabric.
  • the first fabric layer 130 may be a spunbond nonwoven fabric.
  • the first fabric layer 130 may be a carded nonwoven fabric.
  • the first fabric layer 130 may be a spunlace nonwoven fabric.
  • the first fabric layer 130 may be an inelastic fabric comprising mostly inelastic fibers.
  • the laminate 108/110 may further comprise a second fabric layer 140 laminated to a second surface of the film layer 120.
  • the second fabric layer 140 may include a series of distal scores 144, and a series of proximal scores 145.
  • the second fabric layer 140 may include a span of interrupted fabric in the cross-direction (CD) and the machine direction (MD).
  • a rupture 146 and/or a strained tendon 147 may extend between each distal score 144 and a corresponding proximal score 145 to separate the second fabric layer 140 into segments 148 which diverge upon laminate elongation and converge upon laminate recovery.
  • the second fabric layer 140 can be a nonwoven fabric.
  • the second fabric layer 140 can be an elasticized nonwoven fabric.
  • the second fabric layer 140 may be a spunbond nonwoven fabric.
  • the second fabric layer 140 may be a carded nonwoven fabric.
  • the second fabric layer 140 can be a spunlace nonwoven fabric.
  • the second fabric layer 140 can be in the form of an inelastic fabric comprising mostly inelastic fibers.
  • each distal score 134/144 can be approximately aligned in the normal direction (ND) with its corresponding proximal score 135/145.
  • each distal score 134/144 can be offset in the normal direction (ND) from its corresponding proximal score 135/145.
  • the distal scores 134/144 may be staggered relative to the proximal scores 135/145.
  • the various scores may extend in a path substantially parallel to the machine direction (MD).
  • the present invention includes other arrangements and configurations for the scores.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend 20% to 90% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend 30% to 90% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend 40% to 90% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend 50% to 90% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend 60% to 90% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend at least 10% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend at least 20% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend at least 30% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend at least 40% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend at least 50% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend at least 60% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend at least 70% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend at least 80% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the scored regions 134/144/135/145 may extend at least 90% through the thickness of the fabric layer 130/140. It will be understood that the present invention includes a wide range of variations in this regard.
  • the distal scores 134/144 may have substantially the same height across the fabric layer 130/140 and/or the proximal scores 135/145 may have substantially the same height across the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the distal scores 134/144 may have differing heights across the fabric layer 130/140 and/or the proximal scores 135/145 may have differing heights across the fabric layer 130/140.
  • the height of the scores 134/144/135/145 may increase and then decrease in the cross direction (CD).
  • the height of the scores 134/144/135/145 may decrease and then increase in the cross direction (CD).
  • the height of the scores 134/144/135/145 may have stepped heights in the cross direction (CD).
  • the height of the scores 134/144/135/145 may fluctuate in the cross direction (CD).
  • the score heights may differ in a regular manner.
  • the score heights may differ in an irregular manner.
  • the scores 134/144/135/145 may extend in a path non-parallel to the cross direction (CD).
  • the scores 134/144/135/145 can be substantially continuously spaced in the cross direction (CD).
  • the scores 134/144/135/145 may be noncontinuously spaced in the cross direction (CD).
  • Adjacent scores 134/144/135/145 are spaced apart a distance between about 1 millimeter and about 10 millimeters in the cross direction (CD).
  • Adjacent scores 134/144/135/145 can be spaced apart a distance between about 1 millimeter and about 5 millimeters in the cross direction (CD).
  • Adjacent scores 134/144/135/145 can be spaced apart a distance between about 1 millimeter and about 3 millimeters in the cross direction (CD).
  • Adjacent scores 134/144/135/145 can be spaced apart a distance less than about 10 millimeters in the cross direction (CD). Adjacent scores 134/144/135/145 can be spaced apart a distance less than about 5 millimeters in the cross direction (CD). Adjacent scores 134/144/135/145 can be spaced apart a distance less than about 3 millimeters in the cross direction (CD). Adjacent scores 134/144/135/145 may be spaced apart a distance greater than about 0.5 mm in the cross direction (CD). Adjacent scores 134/144/135/145 can be spaced apart a distance greater than about 0.75 mm in the cross direction (CD).
  • the scores 134/144/135/145 may extend continuously across the span of the machine direction (MD).
  • the film layer 120 may be non- coextensive with the fabric layer(s) 130/140 in the cross direction (CD).
  • the film layer 120 may comprise only an elastic portion 121.
  • the fabric layer 130 and/or the fabric layer 140 may extend beyond the film layer 120 in the cross direction (CD).
  • the first fabric layer 130 and the second fabric layer 140 may extend beyond the film layer 120 on both sides in the cross direction (CD).
  • the first fabric layer 130 and the second fabric layer 140 may form nonwoven-only portions that are bonded together.
  • a laminate 108 or 110 may utilize non-reinforcement of the bonded nonwoven-only portions.
  • the nonwoven-only portions may be bonded together by adhesive.
  • a laminate 108/110 may include a nonwoven-only portion forming both of its lateral portions.
  • a laminate 108/110 may use a film layer 120 comprising an elastic portion 121 and an inelastic portion 122.
  • a laminate 108/110 may also feature the elastic portion 121 and the inelastic portion 122 being in the form of lanes extending in the machine direction (MD).
  • a laminate 108/110 may also comprise an elastic portion 121 and an inelastic portion 122 on either side thereof.
  • an adhesive-inhibitor can be used to discourage closing of the proximal scored regions 135/145.
  • a laminate 108/110 may utilize an adhesive-inhibitor mask which comprises printing inks, UV curable coatings and/or electron beam curable coatings.
  • the adhesive-inhibitor may include a contrast intensifying agent comprising phosphorescent additives and/or fluorescent additives.
  • the adhesive-inhibitor may be applied during formation of the proximal scores 135/145.
  • the adhesive-inhibitor can be applied with slitting equipment.
  • the present invention also provides methods of making the laminates 108/1 10.
  • these methods comprise the steps of scoring the distal scores 134 in the first fabric layer 130, scoring the proximal scores 135 in the first fabric layer 130, and laminating the first fabric layer 130 to the elastic layer 120.
  • the first-fabric-scoring steps are performed before the first-fabric-laminating step.
  • the fabric-scoring steps can be performed simultaneously.
  • the methods may further comprise a step of laminating the second fabric layer 140 to the elastic layer 120. The first-fabric-laminating step and the second-fabric-laminating step can be performed substantially simultaneously.
  • the methods may also further comprise a step of scoring distal scores 144 and proximal scores 145 in the second fabric layer 140.
  • the second-fabric- scoring steps can be performed before the first-fabric-laminating step.
  • the second-fabric- scoring steps can be performed before the second-fabric-laminating step.
  • the first-fabric- scoring step and the second-fabric-scoring step can be performed substantially simultaneously.
  • the first-fabric-laminating step and the second-fabric-laminating step can be performed substantially simultaneously.
  • the fabric-scoring step(s) and the fabric-laminating step(s) can be performed in-line.
  • the method may comprise the step of mechanically activating the stretchable laminate 108.
  • the activating step can comprise straining and/or rupturing a fabric span 139/149 as depicted in Figures 18A and 18B.
  • the activating step may comprise integratively stretching the stretchable laminate 108. Integrative stretching can be performed as described in US provisional application 61/032,647.
  • the activating step may comprise locally stretching the stretchable laminate 108.
  • the activating step may comprise incrementally stretching the stretchable laminate 108.
  • the activating step may be performed in-line with fabric-scoring steps.
  • the activating step can be performed in-line with fabric-laminating steps.
  • the activating step may not be performed in-line with fabric-scoring or fabric-laminating steps in certain processes.
  • the present invention includes various garments which utilize the laminates 108/110.
  • garment 165 comprising the side panel 160 can be provided.
  • a garment 175 comprising the fastening tape 170 can be provided.
  • a garment 185 comprising the belt 180 can be provided.
  • a garment 195 comprising a diaper chassis 190 can be provided.
  • Figures 22A - 22B are schematic views of preferred embodiment side panels 160 including the stretchable laminate 108 and/or the elastic laminate 110
  • Figures 22C and 22D are schematic views of various preferred embodiment absorbent disposable articles each of which has a pair of side panels installed thereon.
  • a disposable absorbent article 166 comprising the laminate 108/110 includes a front portion 167, a rear portion 168, and a crotch portion 169 extending therebetween.
  • the side panel 160 includes a proximal edge 161 for attachment to a lateral edge of a rear portion of a chassis of an absorbent article, a distal edge 162, an upper edge 163, and a lower edge 164.
  • the side panel 160 can comprise the laminate 108/110.
  • the cross direction (CD) is the proximal-distal direction and/or the machine direction (MD) is the upper-lower direction.
  • the lower edge 164 is convexly curved.
  • the upper edge 163 and the lower edge 164 are parallel and substantially perpendicular to the proximal edge 161 and/or the distal edge 162.
  • An outer edge of an inelastic zone of the elastic laminate 110 preferably forms the proximal edge 161 and an outer edge of another inelastic zone of the elastic laminate 110 forms the distal edge 162.
  • the side panel 160 may further comprise a fastener. The fastener can be carried by an inelastic zone of the elastic laminate 110.
  • FIG 23A is a schematic view of a fastening tape 170 including the stretchable laminate 108 or the elastic laminate 110.
  • the fastening tape 170 comprises a manufacturer end 171 for connection to the rear chassis portion 168 or a side panel of a disposable absorbent article 166, and a user end 172 for selective attachment to the front portion 167 of the disposable absorbent article 166 by a user.
  • the fastening tape 170 preferably comprises the laminate 108/1 10.
  • the fastening tape 170 may further comprise fastening means 173 adjacent its user end 172.
  • FIG 23B is a schematic view of another preferred embodiment absorbent disposable article 166 having a pair of preferred embodiment fastening tapes 170 installed thereon.
  • the disposable absorbent article 166 may comprise a chassis having a front portion 167, a rear portion 168, and a crotch portion 169 extending therebetween.
  • the disposable absorbent article 166 may further comprise the fastening tape 170 attached to the rear portion 168 or a side panel attached thereto.
  • Figures 24A - 24B are schematic views of preferred belts 180 that each include the stretchable laminate 108 and/or the elastic laminate 1 10, and Figures 24C and 24D are each a schematic view of an absorbent disposable article 166 with the belt(s) 180 installed thereon.
  • the belt 180 comprises a manufacturer end 181 for connection to the rear chassis portion 168 of a disposable absorbent article 166, and a user end 182.
  • the belt 180 comprises the laminate 108/110.
  • the belt 180 may further comprise fastening means 183 adjacent its user end 182.
  • FIG 25 is a view of a preferred embodiment diaper 196 having a diaper chassis 190 including the stretchable laminate 108 and/or the elastic laminate 110 and/or having the laminate installed thereon.
  • the diaper chassis 190 includes a front portion 197, a rear portion 198, and a crotch portion 199 extending therebetween, wherein the chassis 190 comprises the laminate 108/110.
  • the diaper chassis 190 may utilize the laminate 108/110 which forms at least part of the front portion 197.
  • the laminate 108/110 may form a waist region of the front portion 197.
  • the laminate 108/110 forms at least part of the rear portion 198.
  • the diaper chassis 190 may use the laminate 108/110 as a waist region of the rear portion 198.
  • the diaper chassis 190 can use the laminate 108/1 10 as a portion of the crotch portion 199.
  • the diaper chassis 190 can use the laminate 108/1 10 as leg-opening margins of the crotch portion 199.
  • the present invention also includes the incorporation of one or more RFID devices 200 in any of the laminates 108, 110; garment pieces 160, 170, 180, 190; and garments 165, 175, 185, and 195 described herein. Details of the RFID device 200 preferably correspond to those previously described in association with the RFID device 100. [00147] Although the stretchable laminate 108, the elastic laminate 110, layers 120/130/140, garment pieces 160/170/180/190, garments 165/175/185/195, associated components/elements, and/or corresponding methods/steps have been shown and described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be appreciated that equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon the reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings.

Abstract

L'invention concerne un stratifié élastique (10) comprenant une couche élastique (20) et des couches de tissu (30/40). Les couches de tissu (30/40) présentent des discontinuités (32/42) s'étendant au moins partiellement dans l'épaisseur de ces dernières. Les discontinuités (32/42) comprennent une région entaillée (33/43) et l'épaisseur de tissu restant est occupée par des régions de tension (34/44). Ces régions (34/44) peuvent être mécaniquement tendues pour prendre en charge l'allongement-récupération du stratifié. L'invention concerne également un stratifié élastique (110) qui comprend une couche élastique (120) dotée d'au moins une partie élastique (121 ) et une première couche de tissu (130) stratifié sur une première surface de la couche élastique (120). La première couche de tissu (130) présente une série d'entailles distales (134) et une série d'entailles proximales (135). Une rupture (136) et/ou une tension (137) s'étend entre chaque entaille distale (134) et une entaille proximale correspondante (135) afin de séparer la première couche de tissu (130) en segments (138) qui divergent lors de l'allongement du stratifié et qui convergent lors de sa récupération.
PCT/US2009/035365 2008-02-29 2009-02-27 Stratifié élastique WO2009111274A2 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (8)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US3260708P 2008-02-29 2008-02-29
US3244108P 2008-02-29 2008-02-29
US61/032,607 2008-02-29
US61/032,441 2008-02-29
US4081808P 2008-03-31 2008-03-31
US4084008P 2008-03-31 2008-03-31
US61/040,818 2008-03-31
US61/040,840 2008-03-31

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2009111274A2 true WO2009111274A2 (fr) 2009-09-11
WO2009111274A3 WO2009111274A3 (fr) 2009-11-26

Family

ID=40674054

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2009/035365 WO2009111274A2 (fr) 2008-02-29 2009-02-27 Stratifié élastique

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2009111274A2 (fr)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN114222508A (zh) * 2019-10-31 2022-03-22 维珍妮国际(集团)有限公司 衣物及其制作方法
CN114222508B (zh) * 2019-10-31 2024-04-19 维珍妮国际(集团)有限公司 衣物及其制作方法

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE19647459A1 (de) * 1996-11-16 1998-05-20 Mildenberger & Willing Verpack Flächengebilde aus einer gummielastischen Schicht mit aufliegender Vliesschicht und Verfahren zu seiner Herstellung
EP1277868A1 (fr) * 2001-07-19 2003-01-22 Carl Freudenberg KG Nontissé composite ayant une résistance transversale élevée, méthode de fabrication et utilisation
WO2008028114A1 (fr) * 2006-08-31 2008-03-06 Avery Dennison Corporation Stratifié élastique
WO2009042556A1 (fr) * 2007-09-26 2009-04-02 Avery Dennison Corporation Stratifié élastique

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE19647459A1 (de) * 1996-11-16 1998-05-20 Mildenberger & Willing Verpack Flächengebilde aus einer gummielastischen Schicht mit aufliegender Vliesschicht und Verfahren zu seiner Herstellung
EP1277868A1 (fr) * 2001-07-19 2003-01-22 Carl Freudenberg KG Nontissé composite ayant une résistance transversale élevée, méthode de fabrication et utilisation
WO2008028114A1 (fr) * 2006-08-31 2008-03-06 Avery Dennison Corporation Stratifié élastique
WO2009042556A1 (fr) * 2007-09-26 2009-04-02 Avery Dennison Corporation Stratifié élastique

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN114222508A (zh) * 2019-10-31 2022-03-22 维珍妮国际(集团)有限公司 衣物及其制作方法
CN114222508B (zh) * 2019-10-31 2024-04-19 维珍妮国际(集团)有限公司 衣物及其制作方法

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2009111274A3 (fr) 2009-11-26

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US9314991B2 (en) Elastic laminate
AU745499B2 (en) Elastic tab laminate
WO2009091796A2 (fr) Stratifié élastique
US7875012B2 (en) Elastic disposal means
JP5074604B2 (ja) おむつに使用するのに好適な閉鎖部品の製造方法
EP1545421B1 (fr) Pattes elastiques profilees
WO2009042556A1 (fr) Stratifié élastique
EP1698313B1 (fr) Article a porter et mode de fabrication
US20050277905A1 (en) Diapers, diaper fasteners, and/or diaper landing areas
US20090311465A1 (en) Stretchable laminate
US20030194936A1 (en) Elastic closure tab
US7658813B2 (en) Method of preparing closure components suitable for use in diapers
EP1599160A1 (fr) Languette de fixation elastique, systeme de fixation et procede de production associe
EP1255522B2 (fr) Attache pour couche-culotte ligne de separation perforee
WO2009111274A2 (fr) Stratifié élastique
EP2255769A1 (fr) Article absorbant avec une languette de fixation élastique et procédé de fabrication de cet article
WO2016032412A2 (fr) Stratifié étirable
WO2009111303A1 (fr) Procédé de fabrication d'un stratifié élastique

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 09717274

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A2

NENP Non-entry into the national phase in:

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 09717274

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A2