WO2010126415A1

WO2010126415A1 - Method for providing an elasticated web

Info

Publication number: WO2010126415A1
Application number: PCT/SE2009/050468
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lucas BÄCK
Original assignee: Sca Hygiene Products Ab
Priority date: 2009-04-30
Filing date: 2009-04-30
Publication date: 2010-11-04
Also published as: WO2010126431A1; JP5409897B2; US20120055613A1; JP2012525286A; US8764927B2; EP2424481A4; JP5706396B2; CN102458337B; EP2424481A1; RU2011148587A; US20120055615A1; US8764926B2; EP2424480A4; EP2424480B1; EP2424481B1; CN102458336B; CN102458337A; EP2424480A1; CN102458336A; JP2012525198A

Abstract

The invention provides methods for manufacturing elasticated webs comprising discontinous elastic threads, and methods for manufacturing articles from such elasticated webs. Apparatus for carrying out the methods of the invention are also provided. The invention also relates to elasticated webs and articles which can be manufactured using the methods of the invention.

Description

METHOD FOR PROVIDING AN ELASTICATED WEB

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to methods for manufacturing an elasticated web. The invention further relates to an apparatus for forming said elasticated web. The invention also relates to methods for manufacturing an absorbent article. The invention also relates to elasticated webs and absorbent articles which can be manufactured using the methods of the invention.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Absorbent articles, such as diapers or incontinence guards, are articles which are worn adjacent the body, and used for the containment and absorption of bodily exudates, such as urine, blood, faeces and sweat. Such articles are usually supplied with elastic members (commonly in the form of one or more elastic threads). In the interests of manufacturing efficiency and economy, the elastic members are located in selected regions of the article, such as leg openings, waist openings, standing gathers etc. Elastic members have a number of functions - they inter alia help to maintain the article in place on the wearer, they provide the article with a suitable three-dimensional form and they help to seal portions of the article against the skin of the wearer, thus reducing the risk of leakage.

Absorbent articles are manufactured in high volumes, at high speeds. Methods are therefore required which allow the incorporation of elastic members (e.g. in the form of one or more elastic threads) into or onto other components of an absorbent article during manufacture. Elastic members are usually only located in regions of the absorbent article, but are often supplied in continuous form (e.g. on a roll), so one or more steps of cutting the elastic members is usually required. This in turn leads to difficulties in maintaining the correct tension in the elastic members, and may cause crumpling, foreshortening or wrinkling of the elasticated components.

A particular issue is found with elastic members located in the crotch portion of absorbent articles - i.e. that portion which is located between the wearer's legs when the article is worn. It is generally undesirable that elastic members are located in the crotch portion, as they can cause chafing/rubbing in this sensitive area. In addition, elastic members which are arranged across an absorbent core can cause the core to deform. This in turn causes problems in terms of appearance (due to bunching) and liquid handling (due to undesired compression of the absorbent core causing liquid-channelling creases).

US patents 5,660,657 and 5,643,396 disclose methods for constructing garments comprising stretched elastic. US 4,379,016 describes a method and device for applying elastic strips in sections onto a web of material. US 6,179,946 describes a process for making a composite sheet. US 6,482,278 and US 6,521 ,320 disclose pant-type diapers, and methods for their manufacture.

The present invention aims to address the shortcomings associated with the prior art. In particular, the present invention aims to provide a method for providing an elasticated web having discontinuous elastic threads, in which the tension in the elastic threads can be readily controlled, in which cutting of the elastic threads can be accurately controlled, and in which material wastage is minimised. The process should occur without having to remove or add any non-elastic material. In addition, it is advantageous to be able to control the fate of waste material, particularly at the disposal stage. Desirably, the method can be implemented on known or commercially-available machinery without substantial changes to said machinery. These, and further advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following description and claims.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a method for manufacturing an elasticated web 100 having discontinuous elastic threads 510. The method comprises the steps of: a. providing a first web 200, said first web 200 having a primary extension in the machine direction MD, first 201 and second 202 faces and a first edge 203 and a second edge 204, said first and second edges 203, 204 extending in the machine direction MD; b. providing a second web 300, said second web 300 also having a primary extension in the machine direction MD, first 301 and second 302 faces and a first edge 303 and a second edge 304, said first and second edges 303, 304 extending in the machine direction MD; c. applying a first adhesive 250 to at least a portion of the first face 201 of said first web 200 d. applying at least one elastic thread 500 on at least the portion of said first face 201 of said first web 200 which comprises said first adhesive 250; wherein said at least one thread 500 is applied in a pattern P, said pattern

P oscillating in the cross-direction CD and extending in the machine direction MD, such that the pattern P extends over the first edge 203 of the first web 200 to form loops 501 in said elastic thread 500 which project in the cross-direction CD from said first edge 203 of said first web 200; e. securing the loops 501 in a loop retaining means 410 which is located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200; f. applying the first face 301 of said second web 300 on the first face 201 of said first web 200, and fixing said first 200 and second webs 300 together such that said at least one elastic thread 500 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of said respective first and second webs 200, 300; g. cutting the elastic thread 500 substantially at each point at which the elastic thread 500 crosses the first edge 203 of said first web 200 such that the loops 501 become detached from the first web 200; so as to thereby provide an elasticated web 100 having discontinuous elastic threads 510.

Steps d., e., and f. of the method may occur substantially simultaneously in a single nip 400. Preferably, the loop retaining means 410 comprises at least one first 401 and at least one second 402 resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200. Suitably, the second web 300 is applied to the first web 200 such that the first edge 303 of the second web 300 is substantially aligned with the first edge 203 of the first web 200.

A method for manufacturing pant-type articles 20 from the elasticated web 100 is also provided. This method comprises the steps of; a. carrying out the method above, so to provide an elasticated web 100, said elasticated web 100 having first and second edges 103, 104 extending in the machine direction MD; said elasticated web 100 also having discontinuous elastic threads 510, said discontinuous elastic threads 510 being sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300 and extending to the first edge 103 of said elasticated web 100; b. arranging first and second such elasticated webs 100 adjacent one another and in a spaced relationship such that first edges 103 of each of said elasticated webs 100 are located closest to one another and aligned substantially parallel to one another; said first and second elasticated webs 100 being synchronised such that each discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the first elasticated web 100 is located opposite a corresponding discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the second elasticated web 100; c. placing a fourth web 900 and/or an absorbent packet 130 so as to overlie at least a portion of the first and/or second elasticated webs 100, and fixing at least one of said fourth web 900 and/or said absorbent packet 130 to both first and second elasticated webs 100; d. cutting out leg regions 122 of one or both elasticated webs 100 and - if present - said fourth web 900; each leg region 122 being defined substantially within said elasticated webs 100 by discontinuous elastic threads 510; e. folding the co-joined elasticated webs 100 along a fold-line F, so that second edges 104 of each elasticated web 100 become arranged substantially adjacent one another and substantially parallel, with the fourth web 900 located on the outside of the fold and/or the absorbent packet 130 located on the inside of the fold; f. joining the first and second elasticated webs 100 to each other along lines C, said lines C extending substantially in the cross direction CD from the second edges 104 of each elasticated web 100 to the fold-line F, said lines

C being located substantially at the point at which the at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is located furthest from the first edge 103 of each elasticated web 100; to form side-seams 131 ; g. cutting each elasticated web 100, and - if present - the fourth web 900, along lines C such that first and second elasticated webs 100 remain joined on either side of the cut, so as to provide pant-type articles 20.

A method for manufacturing absorbent articles 10 from the elasticated web 100 is also provided. This method comprises the steps of; a. carrying out the method above, so to provide an elasticated web 100, said elasticated web 100 having first and second edges 103, 104 extending in the machine direction MD; said elasticated web 100 also having discontinuous elastic threads 510 in which discontinuous elastic threads 510 are sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300 and extend to the first edge 103 of said elasticated web 100; b. arranging a first and a second such elasticated webs 100 adjacent one another and in a spaced relationship such that first edges 103 of each of said elasticated webs 100 are located closest to one another and aligned substantially parallel to one another; said first and second elasticated webs 100 being synchronised such that each discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the first elasticated web 100 is located opposite a corresponding discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the second elasticated web 100; c. placing an absorbent packet 130 so as to overlie at least a portion of the first and/or second elasticated webs 100; d. optionally, placing a fourth web 900 so as to overlie the first edges 103 of the first and second elasticated webs 100, and fixing at least one of said fourth web 900 and/or said absorbent packet 130 to both first and second elasticated webs 100; e. cutting out leg regions 122 of said fourth web 900 and optionally said first and/or second elasticated webs 100; each leg region 122 being defined substantially within said elasticated webs 100 by discontinuous elastic threads 510; f. cutting the co-joined elasticated webs 100 and - if present - the fourth web

900 along lines C, said lines C extending substantially in the cross direction CD from the second edge 104 of one elasticated web 100 to the second edge 104 of the other elasticated web 100, said lines C being located substantially at the point at which the at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is located furthest from the first edge 103 of each elasticated web 100; g. providing fastening means 132 on at least one of said first and second elasticated webs 100; vide absorbent articles 10. The invention also provides a method for manufacturing an elasticated web 140 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511. The method comprises the steps of: a. providing a first web 200, said first web 200 having a primary extension in the machine direction MD, first 201 and second 202 faces and a first edge 203 and a second edge 204, said first and second edges 203, 204 extending in the machine direction MD; b. providing a second web 300, said second web 300 also having a primary extension in the machine direction MD, first 301 and second 302 faces and a first edge 303 and a second edge 304, said first and second edges 303, 304 extending in the machine direction MD; c. providing a third web 700 said third web 700 having a primary extension in the machine direction MD, first 701 and second 702 faces and a first edge 703 and a second edge 704, said first and second edges 703, 704 extending in the machine direction MD; d. arranging said third web 700 to lie adjacent and substantially parallel with said first web 200, in a spaced arrangement with the first faces 201 , 701 of said webs 200, 700 facing the same direction, such that the first edges 203, 703 of respective first 200 and third 700 webs are adjacent; e. applying a first adhesive 250 to at least a portion of the first face 201 of said first web 200 or to at least a portion of the first face 301 of the second web 300; f. applying a second adhesive 260 to at least a portion of the first face 701 of said third web 700 or to at least a portion of the first face 301 of the second web 300; g. applying at least one first elastic thread 500 on at least the portion of said first face 201 of said first web 200 or on at least the portion of said first face

301 of said second web 300 which comprises said first adhesive 250; wherein said at least one first thread 500 is applied in a first pattern P1 , said first pattern P1 oscillating in the cross-direction CD and extending in the machine direction MD, h. applying at least one second elastic thread 502 on at least the portion of said first face 701 of said third web 700 or to at least the portion of said first face 301 of said second web 300 which comprises said second adhesive 260; wherein said at least one second elastic thread 502 is applied in a second pattern P2, said second pattern P2 oscillating in the cross-direction CD and extending in the machine direction MD, i. applying a portion of the first face 301 of said second web 300 on the first face 201 of said first web 200, and fixing said first 200 and second webs 300 together such that said at least one first elastic thread 500 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300; such that the first pattern P1 extends over the first edge 203 of the first web 200 to form first loops 501 in said first elastic thread 500 which project in the cross-direction CD from said first edge 203 of said first web 200; j. applying a portion of the first face 301 of said second web 300 on the first face 701 of said third web 700, and fixing said third 700 and second webs 300 together such that said at least one second elastic thread 502 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 301 , 701 of respective second and third webs 300, 700; such that the second pattern P2 extends over the first edge 703 of the third web 700 to form second loops 503 in said second elastic thread 502 which project in the cross-direction CD from said first edge 703 of said third web 700; and such that said first and second patterns P1 , P2 are synchronised such that the point in the machine direction MD at which the first elastic threads 500 are located furthest from the first edge 203 of the first web 200 corresponds substantially to the point in the machine direction MD at which the second elastic threads 502 are located furthest from the first edge 703 of the third web 700; k. securing the first loops 501 of said first elastic threads 500 in a first loop retaining means 410 located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200; I. securing the second loops 503 of said second elastic threads 502 in a second loop retaining means 411 located adjacent the first edge 703 of said third web 700; m. cutting all the first elastic threads 500 substantially at the point at which each first elastic thread 500 crosses the first edge 203 of said first web 200 such that the loops 501 become detached from the first web 200; n. cutting all the second elastic threads 502 substantially at the point at which each second elastic thread 502 crosses the first edge 703 of said third web 700 such that the loops 503 become detached from the third web 700; wherein step d. can take place at any point in the process before step i. so as to provide an elasticated web 140 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511.

Steps e. - I. of this method may occur substantially simultaneously in a single nip 400.

Preferably, the first loop retaining means 410 comprises at least one first 401 and at least one second 402 resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200. Similarly the second loop retaining means 411 may comprise at least one third 403 and at least one fourth 404 resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge 703 of said third web 700. As a further option, a single wide resilient belt may comprise the third resilient belt 403 and the first resilient belt 401 , and a single wide resilient belt may comprise the fourth resilient belt 404 and the second resilient belt 402.

The invention also provides a method for manufacturing pant-type articles 20 from the elasticated web 140. This method comprises the steps of: a. carrying out the method above, so to provide an elasticated web 140 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 in which at least one first discontinuous elastic thread 510 is sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300; and at least one second discontinuous elastic thread 511 is sandwiched between the first faces 701 , 301 of respective third and second webs 700, 300; b cutting out a leg region 122 of the elasticated web 140 defined substantially between discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 of the first and third webs 200, 700 so as to form leg openings 121 ; c. folding the elasticated web 140 along a fold-line F, so that first and second edges 143, 144 of the elasticated web 140 become arranged substantially adjacent one another and substantially parallel; d. joining the folded elasticated web 140 along lines C, said lines C extending substantially in the cross direction CD from the first and second edges 143,

144 of the elasticated web 140 to the fold-line F, said lines C being located substantially at the point at which the discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 are located furthest from the fold-line F; to form side-seams 131 ; e. cutting the elasticated web 140 along lines C such that the elasticated web 140 remain joined on either side of the cut; wherein steps b. and c. can take place in any order, so as to thereby provide pant-type articles 20.

This method may comprise the additional step of: placing an absorbent packet 130 so as to overlie at least a portion of the first web 200, second 300 and/or the third web 700, and fixing said absorbent packet 130 to at least one of said first, second and/or third webs 200, 300, 700; after step a., but before step c.

The invention also provides a method for manufacturing absorbent articles 10 from the elasticated web 140. The method comprises the steps of; a. carrying out the method above, so to provide an elasticated web 140 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 in which at least one first discontinuous elastic thread 510 is sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300; and at least one second discontinuous elastic thread 51 1 is sandwiched between the first faces 701 , 301 of respective third and second webs 700, 300; b. placing an absorbent packet 130 so as to overlie at least a portion of the first web 200, second 300 and/or the third web 700, and fixing said absorbent packet 130 to at least one of said first, second and/or third webs 200, 300, 700; c. cutting out a region of the elasticated web 140 defined substantially between discontinuous elastic threads 510, 51 1 of the first and third webs 200, 700, so as to form leg openings 121 ; d. providing fastening means 132 on said elasticated web 140; e. cutting the elasticated web 140 along lines C said lines C extending substantially in the cross direction CD from the first edge 143 to the second edge 144 of the elasticated web 140, said lines C being located substantially at the point at which the discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 are located furthest from the first edges 203, 703 of the first 200 and third 700 webs; so as to provide absorbent articles 10.

The invention also provides an elasticated web 100 having discontinuous elastic threads. The elasticated web comprises: a. a first web 200, said first web 200 having a primary extension in the machine direction MD, first 201 and second 202 faces and a first edge 203 and a second edge 204, said first and second edges 203, 204 extending in the machine direction MD; b. a second web 300, said second web 300 also having a primary extension in the machine direction MD, first 301 and second 302 faces and a first edge 303 and a second edge 304, said first and second edges 303, 304 extending in the machine direction MD; c. a first adhesive 250 arranged on at least a portion of the first face 201 of said first web 200; d. at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 arranged on at least the portion of said first face 201 of said first web 200 which comprises said first adhesive 250; e. wherein the first face 301 of said second web 300 overlies the first face 201 of said first web 200; said first 200 and second webs 300 being fixed together such that said at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of said respective first and second webs 200, 300.

At least one discontinuous thread 510 is present in a pattern R, said pattern R forming loops 520 which extend from the first edge 203 of the first web 200 and back to said first edge 203 of the first web 200; so that the discontinuous elastic threads 510 terminate at each point at which they meet the first edge 203 of said first web 200. Furthermore, the invention provides an elasticated web 140 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 51 1. This elasticated web 140 comprises: a. a first web 200, said first web 200 having a primary extension in the machine direction MD, first 201 and second 202 faces and a first edge 203 and a second edge 204, said first and second edges 203, 204 extending in the machine direction MD; b. a second web 300, said second web 300 having a primary extension in the machine direction MD, first 301 and second 302 faces and a first edge 303 and a second edge 304, said first and second edges 303, 304 extending in the machine direction MD; c. a third web 700, said third web 700 having a primary extension in the machine direction MD, first 701 and second 702 faces and a first edge 703 and a second edge 704, said first and second edges 703, 704 extending in the machine direction MD; d. a first adhesive 250 arranged on at least a portion of the first face 201 of said first web 200 or on at least a portion of the first face 301 of said second web 300; e. at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 arranged on at least the portion of said first face 201 of said first web 200 or on at least the portion of the first face 301 of said second web 300 which comprises said first adhesive 250; f. a second adhesive 260 arranged on at least a portion of the first face 701 of said third web 700 or on at least a portion of the first face 301 of said second web 300; g. at least one discontinuous elastic thread 511 arranged on at least the portion of said first face 701 of said third web 700 or on at least the portion of the first face 301 of said second web 300 which comprises said second adhesive 260; h. said third web 700 lying adjacent and substantially parallel with said first web 200, in a spaced arrangement with the first faces 201 , 701 of said webs 200, 700 facing the same direction, such that the first edges 203, 703 of respective first 200 and third 700 webs are adjacent; i. wherein the first face 301 of said second web 300 overlies the first face 201 of said first web 200; said first 200 and second webs 300 being fixed together such that said at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of said respective first and second webs 200, 300; j. and wherein the first face 301 of said second web 300 also overlies the first face 701 of said third web 700; said third 700 and second webs 300 being

5 fixed together such that said at least one discontinuous elastic thread 511 is sandwiched between the first faces 701 , 301 of said respective third and second webs 700, 300.

The at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is present in a first pattern R1 , said first

10 pattern R1 forming loops 520 which extend from the first edge 203 of the first web 200 and back to said first edge 203 of the first web 200; so that the discontinuous elastic threads 510 terminate at each point at which they meet the first edge 203 of said first web

200. In addition, the at least one discontinuous thread 511 is present in a second pattern

R2, said second pattern R2 forming loops 521 which extend from the first edge 703 of the

15 third web 700 and back to said third edge 703 of the third web 700; so that the discontinuous elastic threads 511 terminate at each point at which they meet the first edge 703 of said third web 700.

The invention also provides a pant-type article 20, comprising: 20 - a front panel 150, a rear panel 160; a crotch panel 181 , said crotch panel 181 extending between said front panel 150 and said rear panel 160 in the longitudinal direction L of the pant-type article 20 and being joined to said front and rear panels 150, 160;

25 wherein said crotch panel 181 comprises a crotch layer 180, and/or an absorbent packet 130; said front and rear panels 150, 160 being joined at side seams 131 at the transverse edges thereof at least said front panel 150 comprising a first front layer 151 , a second front layer 30 152 and at least two first leg elastics 153 located between said first 151 and second 152 front layers; wherein said at least two first leg elastics 153 are located on either side of a longitudinal centre line L1 of the pant-type article 20; wherein said first front layer 151 is defined by first 154 and second edges 155 which extend substantially in the transverse direction T of the pant-type article 20; said first 154 edge being that which is located closest to the crotch panel 181 of the pant-type article 20, said rear panel 160 also comprising a first rear layer 161 , a second rear layer 162 and at least two second leg elastics 163 located between said first 161 and second 162 rear layers; wherein said at least two second leg elastics 163 are located on either side of longitudinal centre line L1 of the pant-type article 20; and said first rear layer 161 being defined by first 164 and second edges 165 which extend substantially in the transverse direction T of the pant-type article 20; said first 164 edge being that which is located closest to the crotch panel 181 of the pant-type article 20.

The first leg elastics 153 in said front panel 150 terminate at the point at which they meet the first edge 154 of said first front layer 151 and the second leg elastics 163 in said rear panel 160 terminate at the point at which they meet the first edge 164 of said first rear layer 161.

In the above pant-type article 20, said at least two first leg elastics 153 and said at least two second leg elastics 163 may be located on either side of the absorbent packet 130 of the pant-type article 20 in the transverse direction T. Additionally, a single second layer 170 may comprise the second front layer 152, the second rear layer 162 and the crotch layer 180.

In addition, the invention provides an absorbent article 10, comprising: a front panel 150, - a rear panel 160; a crotch panel 181 , said crotch panel 181 extending between said front panel 150 and said rear panel 160 in the longitudinal direction L of the absorbent article 10 and being joined to said front and rear panels 150, 160; wherein said crotch panel 181 comprises an absorbent packet 130, and optionally, a crotch layer 180; at least one of said front and rear panels 150, 160 comprising fastening means 132; at least said front panel 150 comprising a first front layer 151 , a second front layer 152 and at least two first leg elastics 153 located between said first 151 and second 152 front layers; wherein said at least two first leg elastics 153 are located on either side of a longitudinal centre line L1 of the absorbent article 10; wherein said first front layer 151 is defined by first 154 and second edges 155 which extend substantially in the transverse direction T of the absorbent article 10; said first 154 edge being that which is located closest to the crotch panel 181 of the absorbent article 10, said rear panel 160 also comprising a first rear layer 161 , a second rear layer 162 and at least two second leg elastics 163 located between said first 161 and second 162 rear layers; wherein said at least two second leg elastics 163 are located on either side of longitudinal centre line L1 of the absorbent article 10; and said first rear layer 161 being defined by first 164 and second edges 165 which extend substantially in the transverse direction T of the absorbent article 10; said first 164 edge being that which is located closest to the crotch panel 181 of the absorbent article 10, The first leg elastics 153 in said front panel 150 terminate at the point at which they meet the first edge 154 of said first front layer 151 and the second leg elastics 163 in said rear panel 160 terminate at the point at which they meet the first edge 164 of said first rear layer 161.

In the absorbent article 10 above, said at least two first leg elastics 153 and said at least two second leg elastics 163 are located on either side of the absorbent packet 130 of the absorbent article 10 in the transverse direction T. A single second layer 170 may comprise the second front layer 152, the second rear layer 162 and the crotch layer 180.

The invention provides an apparatus 600 for carrying out the first method of the invention. The apparatus comprises: first web supply means 601 , for supplying said first web 200; second web supply means 602, for supplying said second web 300; elastic thread supply means 603 for supplying said at least one elastic thread 500; - adhesive supply means 604 for supplying said first adhesive 250; elastic cutting means 605 for cutting said at least one elastic thread 500 wherein

- said adhesive supply means 604 is arranged so as to apply a first adhesive 250 to at least a portion of the first face 201 of said first web 200; - said elastic thread supply means 603 is arranged so as to apply at least one elastic thread 500 on at least the portion of said first face 201 of said first web 200 which comprises said first adhesive 250; wherein said at least one thread 500 is applied in a pattern P, said pattern P oscillating in the cross-direction CD and extending in the machine direction MD, such that the pattern P extends over the first edge 203 of the first web 200 to form loops 501 in said elastic threads 500 which project in the cross-direction CD from said first edge 203 of said first web 200;

- said second web supply means 602 is arranged so as to apply the first face 301 of said second web 300 on the first face 201 of said first web 200, and fix said first 200 and second webs 300 together such that said at least one elastic thread 500 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300;

- said elastic cutting means 605 arranged so as to cut all the elastic threads 500 substantially at the point at which each elastic thread 500 crosses the first edge 203 of said first web 200 such that the loops 501 become detached from the first web 200;

The apparatus 600 additionally comprises loop retaining means 410 located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200 and which is adapted so as to secure the loops 501 in said loop retaining means 410.

The first 200 and second webs 300 may be fixed together in a single nip 400. The loop retaining means 410 suitably comprises at least one first 401 and at least one second 402 resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200; and which are adapted so as to secure the loops 501 in a nip 400 between said at least one first 401 and said at least one second 402 resilient belt.

Additionally, first web supply means 601 ; second web supply means 602; - elastic thread supply means 603 for supplying at least one elastic thread 500; adhesive supply means 604; cutting means 605; and loop retaining means (410) may be arranged peripherally about a single central cylinder 620. The invention also provides an apparatus 600, for manufacturing pant-type articles 20, said apparatus 600 additionally comprising; elasticated web supply means 606; for supply of first and second elasticated web 100 - fourth web supply means 616, for supply of fourth web 900 and/or absorbent packet supply means 618, for supply of absorbent packets 130 leg region cutting means 608, for cutting out leg regions 122 folding means 617 for folding the co-joined elasticated webs 100 joining means 614 for joining the first and second elasticated webs 100 - elasticated web cutting means 609, for cutting elasticated webs 100 and - if present - the fourth web 900, wherein: a. said elasticated web supply means 606 is arranged so as to provide first and second elasticated webs 100 adjacent one another and in a spaced relationship such that the first edges 103 of each of said elasticated webs 100 are located closest to one another and aligned substantially parallel to one another; said first and second elasticated webs 100 being synchronised such that each discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the first elasticated web 100 is located opposite a corresponding discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the second elasticated web 100; b. said fourth web supply means 616, for supply of fourth web 900 being arranged so as to place a fourth web 900 so as to overlie the first edges 103 of the first and second elasticated webs 100, and to fix said fourth web 900 to both first and second elasticated webs 100; c. said absorbent packet supply means 618 being arranged so as to place an absorbent packet 130 so as to overlie at least a portion of the first or second elasticated webs 100, and to fix said absorbent packet 130 to at least one of said first and second elasticated webs 100; such that at least one of said fourth web 900 and/or said absorbent packet 130 is fixed to both first and second elasticated webs 100; d. said leg region cutting means 608 being arranged so as to cut out a leg region 122 of one or both elasticated webs 100 and - if present - said fourth web 900; each leg region 122 being defined substantially by discontinuous elastic threads 510 so as to form leg openings 1 1 1 ; e. said folding means 617 being arranged so as to fold the co-joined elasticated webs 100 along a fold-line F, so that second edges 104 of each elasticated web 100 become arranged substantially adjacent one another and substantially parallel, with the fourth web 900 located on the outside of the fold and/or the absorbent packet 130 located on the inside of the fold; f. said joining means 614 being arranged so as to join the first and second elasticated webs 100 to each other along lines C, said lines C extending substantially in the cross direction CD from the second edges 104 of each elasticated web 100 to the fold-line F, said lines C being located substantially at the point at which the at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is located furthest from the first edge 103 of each elasticated web 100; to form side-seams 131 ; g. said elasticated web cutting means 609 being arranged so as to cut each elasticated web 100 and - if present - the fourth web 900, along lines C such that first and second elasticated webs 100 remain joined on either side of the cut.

Additionally, an apparatus 600 is provided, for manufacturing absorbent articles 10 in the form of open diapers. This apparatus 600 additionally comprises; - elasticated web supply means 606; for supply of first and second elasticated web

100 absorbent packet supply means 618, for supply of absorbent packets 130 optionally, fourth web supply means 616, for supply of fourth web 900 leg region cutting means 608, for cutting out leg regions 122 - elasticated web cutting means 609, for cutting elasticated webs 100 and - if present - the fourth web 900, fastening supply means 615, for supply of fastening means 132, wherein: a. said elasticated web supply means 606 is arranged so as to provide first and second elasticated webs 100 adjacent one another and in a spaced relationship such that the first edges 103 of each of said elasticated webs 100 are located closest to one another and aligned substantially parallel to one another; said first and second elasticated webs 100 being synchronised such that each discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the first elasticated web 100 is located opposite a corresponding discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the second elasticated web 100; b. said absorbent packet supply means 618 being arranged so as to place an absorbent packet 130 so as to overlie at least a portion of the first or second elasticated webs 100; c. said fourth web supply means 616, for supply of fourth web 900 being arranged so as to place a fourth web 900 so as to overlie the first edges 103 of the first and second elasticated webs 100, and fixing at least one of said fourth web 900 and/or said absorbent packet 130 to both first and second elasticated webs 100; d. said leg region cutting means 608 being arranged so as to cut out a leg region 122 of one or both elasticated webs 100 and - if present - said fourth web 900; each leg region 122 being defined substantially by discontinuous elastic threads 510 so as to form leg openings 111 ; e. said elasticated web cutting means 609 arranged to cut the co-joined elasticated webs 100 and - if present - the fourth web 900 along lines C, said lines C extending substantially in the cross direction CD from the second edge 104 of one elasticated web 100 to the second edge 104 of the other elasticated web 100, said lines C being located substantially at the point at which the at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is located furthest from the first edge 103 of each elasticated web 100; f. said fastening supply means 615, arranged so as to provide fastening means 132 on at least one of said first and second elasticated webs 100.

An apparatus 600 is also provided for manufacturing the elasticated web 140. Said apparatus 600 comprises: first web supply means 601 , for supplying said first web 200; second web supply means 602, for supplying said second web 300; - third web supply means 607, for supplying said third web 700; first elastic thread supply means 610 for supplying said at least one first elastic thread 500; second elastic thread supply means 611 for supplying said at least one second elastic thread 502; - first adhesive supply means 612 for supplying said first adhesive 250; second adhesive supply means 613 for supplying said second adhesive 260; cutting means 605, 605' for cutting said first and second elastic threads 500, 502; wherein

- said first adhesive supply means 612 is arranged so as to apply a first adhesive 250 to at least a portion of the first face 201 of said first web 200 or to at least a portion of the first face 301 of the second web 300;

- said first elastic thread supply means 610 is arranged so as to apply at least one first elastic thread 500 on at least the portion of said first face 201 of said first web 200 or on at least the portion of said first face 301 of said second web 300 which comprises said first adhesive 250; wherein said at least one first elastic thread 500 is applied in a first pattern P1 , said first pattern P1 oscillating in the cross-direction CD and extending in the machine direction MD,

- said second adhesive supply means 613 is arranged so as to apply a second adhesive 260 to at least a portion of the first face 701 of the third web 700 or to at least a portion of

5 the first face 301 of the second web 300;

- said second elastic thread supply means 611 is arranged so as to apply at least one second elastic thread 502 on at least the portion of said first face 701 of said third web 700 or on at least the portion of said first face 301 of said second web 300 which comprises said second adhesive 260; wherein said at least one second elastic thread 502

10 is applied in a second pattern P2, said second pattern P2 oscillating in the cross-direction CD and extending in the machine direction MD,

- said second web supply means 602 is arranged so as to apply the first face 301 of said second web 300 on the first face 201 of said first web 200 and the first face 701 of said third web 700, and fix said first 200 and second webs 300 together; and said third 700 and

15 said second 300 webs together; such that said at least one first elastic thread 500 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300; and said at least one second elastic thread 502 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 701 , 301 of respective third and second webs 700, 300; and such that the first pattern P1 extends over the first edge 203 of the first web 200 to

20 form first loops 501 in said first elastic threads 500 which project in the cross-direction CD from said first edge 203 of said first web 200; and such that the second pattern P2 extends over the first edge 703 of the third web 700 to form second loops 503 in said second elastic threads 502 which project in the cross- direction CD from said first edge 703 of said third web 700;

25 and such that said first and second patterns P1 , P2 are synchronised such that the point in the machine direction MD at which the first elastic threads 500 are located furthest from the first edge 203 of the first web 200 corresponds substantially to the point in the machine direction MD at which the second elastic threads 502 are located furthest from the first edge 703 of the third web 700;

30 - said cutting means 605, 605' arranged so as to cut all the elastic threads 500, 502 substantially at the point at which each first elastic thread 500 crosses the first edge 203 of said first web 200 such that the first loops 501 become detached from the first web 200; and at the point at which each second elastic thread 502 crosses the first edge 701 of said third web 700; such that the second loops 503 become detached from the third web

35 700. The apparatus 600 comprises first loop retaining means 410 located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200 and which is adapted so as to secure the first loops 501 in said first loop retaining means 410 and second loop retaining means 411 located adjacent 5 the first edge 703 of said third web 700 and which is adapted so as to secure the second loops 503 in said second loop retaining means 411.

The first loop retaining means 410 may comprise at least one first 401 and at least one second 402 resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 10 200; and which are adapted so as to secure the first loops 501 of the first elastic thread 500 in a nip 400 between said at least one first 401 and said at least one second 402 resilient belt.

Similarly, the second loop retaining means 411 comprises at least one third 403 and at

15 least one fourth 404 resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge 703 of said third web 700; and which are adapted so as to secure the second loops 503 of the second elastic thread 502 in a nip 400' between said at least one third 403 and said at least one fourth 404 resilient belt. Optionally, a single wide resilient belt may comprise the third resilient belt 403 and the first resilient belt 401 , and a single wide resilient belt comprises

20 the fourth resilient belt 404 and the second resilient belt 402.

First 200, second 300 and third 700 webs may be fixed together in a single nip 400 in the above apparatus 600.

25 In the apparatus 600 above; first web supply means 601 , for supplying said first web 200; second web supply means 602, for supplying said second web 300; third web supply means 607, for supplying said third web 700; first elastic thread supply means 610 for supplying said at least one first elastic 30 thread 500; second elastic thread supply means 611 for supplying said at least one second elastic thread 502; first adhesive supply means 612 for supplying said first adhesive 250; second adhesive supply means 613 for supplying said second adhesive 260; 35 - cutting means 605, 605' for cutting said first and second elastic threads 500, 502; first 410 and second 411 loop retaining means; may be arranged peripherally about a single central cylinder 620.

An apparatus 600 is also provided, for manufacturing pant-type articles 20 from elasticated web 140. This apparatus 600 additionally comprises; elasticated web supply means 621 ; for supply of said elasticated web 140; optionally, absorbent packet supply means 622, for supply of absorbent packets

130 leg region cutting means 623, for cutting out leg regions 122 - folding means 628 for folding the elasticated web 140 joining means 626 for joining the elasticated web 140. elasticated web cutting means 625, for cutting elasticated web 140 wherein: a. said elasticated web supply means 621 is arranged so as to provide an elasticated web 140 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 in which at least one first discontinuous elastic thread 510 is sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300; and at least one second discontinuous elastic thread 51 1 is sandwiched between the first faces 701 , 301 of respective third and second webs 700, 300; b. said absorbent packet supply means 622 being arranged so as to place an absorbent packet 130 so as to overlie at least a portion of the first web 200, second web 300 and/or the third web 700, and to fix said absorbent packet 130 to at least one of said first, second and third webs 200, 300, 700; c. said leg region cutting means 623 being arranged so as to cut out a region of the elasticated web 140 defined substantially between discontinuous elastic threads 510, 51 1 of the first and third webs 200, 700, so as to form leg openings 121 ; d. said folding means 628 arranged so as to fold the elasticated web 140 along a fold-line F, so that first and second edges 143, 144 of the elasticated web 140 become arranged substantially adjacent one another and substantially parallel; e. said joining means 626 arranged so as to join the folded elasticated web 140 along lines C, said lines C extending substantially in the cross direction CD from the first and second edges 143, 144 of the elasticated web 140 to the fold-line F, said lines C being located substantially at the point at which the discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 are located furthest from the fold-line F; to form side-seams 131 ; f. said elasticated web cutting means 625 being arranged so as to cut the elasticated web 140 along lines C such that the elasticated web 140 remain joined on either side of the cut.

An apparatus 600 is also provided, for manufacturing absorbent articles 10 in the form of open diapers from elasticated web 140. This apparatus 600 additionally comprises; elasticated web supply means 621 ; for supply of said elasticated web 140; absorbent packet supply means 622, for supply of absorbent packets 130 leg region cutting means 623, for cutting out leg regions 624 - elasticated web cutting means 625, for cutting elasticated web 140 fastening supply means 627 for supply of fastening means 132 wherein: a. said elasticated web supply means 621 is arranged so as to provide an elasticated web 140 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 in which at least one first discontinuous elastic thread 510 is sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300; and at least one second discontinuous elastic thread 51 1 is sandwiched between the first faces 701 , 301 of respective third and second webs 700, 300; b. said absorbent packet supply means 622 being arranged so as to place an absorbent packet 130 so as to overlie at least a portion of the first web 200, second web

300 and/or the third web 700, and to fix said absorbent packet 130 to at least one of said first, second and third webs 200, 300, 700; c. said leg region cutting means 623 being arranged so as to cut out a region of the elasticated web 140 defined substantially between discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 of the first and third webs 200, 700, so as to form leg openings 121 ; d. said fastening supply means 627 arranged so as to provide fastening means 132 on said elasticated web 140 e. said elasticated web cutting means 625 being arranged so as to cut the elasticated web 140 along lines C said lines C extending substantially in the cross direction CD from the first edge 143 to the second edge 144 of the elasticated web 140, said lines C being located substantially at the point at which the discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 are located furthest from the first edges 203, 703 of the first 200 and third 700 webs. DEFINITIONS

The "machine-direction" should be understood to mean the principal direction of travel of the components in an automated process. The "cross-direction" should be understood to mean the direction perpendicular to the machine direction, in the plane of the components.

The term "absorbent article" refers to products that are placed against the skin of the wearer to absorb and contain body exudates, like urine, faeces and menstrual fluid. The invention mainly refers to disposable absorbent articles, which means articles that are not intended to be laundered or otherwise restored or reused as an absorbent article after use. The term includes diapers (both open diapers and pant diapers) and incontinence guards.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention will now be more closely described with reference to the enclosed schematic figures, in which:

Figure 1 is a simplified view of a first embodiment of a method for manufacturing an elasticated web.

Figure 2 is a simplified view of the first embodiment, with a different loop fastening means Figure 3 is a simplified view of the first embodiment, with a different loop fastening means

Figure 3A is an expanded cross-sectional view along the line IA-IA in Figure 3

Figure 3B is an expanded cross-sectional view along the line IB-IB in Figure 3

Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of an apparatus suitable for providing the elasticated web of the first embodiment. Figure 5 shows how a pant-type article may be produced from two elasticated webs of

Figure 3.

Figure 6 shows how an open diaper may be produced from two elasticated webs of Figure

3.

Figure 7 is a simplified view of a second embodiment of a method for manufacturing an elasticated web.

Figure 7A is an expanded cross-sectional view along the line VA-VA in Figure 7

Figure 7B is an expanded cross-sectional view along the line VB-VB in Figure 7

Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of an apparatus suitable for providing the elasticated web of the second embodiment. Figure 9 shows how a pant-type article may be produced from the elasticated web of Figure 7.

Figure 10 shows how an open diaper may be produced from the elasticated web of Figure 7. Figure 11 shows an embodiment of a pant-type article of the invention Figure 11 A is a cross-sectional view along line XIA-XIA of Figure 11 Figure 12 shows an embodiment of a pant-type article of the invention Figure 12A is a cross-sectional view along line XIIA-XIIA of Figure 12 Figure 13 shows an embodiment of a pant-type article of the invention Figure 13A is a cross-sectional view along line XIII A-XIII A of Figure 13 Figure 14 shows an embodiment of a pant-type article of the invention Figure 14A is a cross-sectional view along line XIVA-XIVA of Figure 14 Figure 15 shows an embodiment of a pant-type article of the invention Figure 15A is a cross-sectional view along line XVA-XVA of Figure 15 Figure 16 shows an embodiment of a pant-type article of the invention Figure 16A is a cross-sectional view along line XVIA-XVIA of Figure 16 Figure 17 shows an embodiment of a pant-type article of the invention Figure 17A is a cross-sectional view along line XVIIA-XVIIA of Figure 17 Figure 18 shows an embodiment of an open diaper of the invention Figure 18A is a cross-sectional view along line XVIIIA-XVIIIA of Figure 18 Figure 19 shows an embodiment of an open diaper of the invention Figure 19A is a cross-sectional view along line XIXA-XIXA of Figure 18 Figure 20 shows an embodiment of an open diaper of the invention Figure 2OA is a cross-sectional view along line XXA-XXA of Figure 20 Figure 21 shows an embodiment of an open diaper of the invention Figure 21A is a cross-sectional view along line XXIA-XXIA of Figure 21

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A simplified view of one embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 1. The illustrated method allows an elasticated web 100 having discontinuous elastic threads 510 to be manufactured. The elasticated web 100 is essentially a laminate of first 200 and second 300 webs, with discontinuous elastic threads 510 sandwiched between said first 200 and second 300 webs. In a first step, a first web 200 is provided. The first web 200 may comprise a nonwoven material (e.g. spunbond, meltblown, carded, hydroentangled, wetlaid etc). The fibres of the nonwoven material may be natural (e.g. rayon or cellulose fibres) or artificial (e.g. polymeric fibres such as polyolefin fibres, e.g. polyethylene or polypropylene fibres). The first web 200 may alternatively comprise a plastic film, e.g. a polyolefin film such as polyethylene or polypropylene. The first web 200 may even comprise a laminate of two or more nonwoven layers, or a laminate of one or more nonwoven layers with one or more plastic films. Suitably, the first web 200 has a basis weight of between 10-40g/m². The first web 200 should suitably be air-permeable.

The first web 200 has a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first 201 and second 202 faces and a first edge 203 and a second edge 204. The first and second edges 203, 204 extend in the machine direction (MD). First 203 and second 204 edges of the first web 200 are typically straight and parallel to one another. The first web 200 is transported essentially continuously in the machine direction from e.g. a roll. Typically, the first web 200 has an extension in the cross direction (CD) of between 10 and 25cm for a baby diaper and 20-50cm for an adult incontinence pant, preferably between 13-20 cm for a baby diaper and 30-43cm for an adult incontinence pant.

A second web 300 is also provided. The second web 300 may comprise one or more nonwoven materials, plastic films, or laminates of two such materials, in the same way as described for the first web 200, above. The first 200 and second 300 webs may be the same, or may be different. In a similar way to the first web 200, the second web 300 also has a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first 301 and second 302 faces and a first edge 303 and a second edge 304, said first and second edges 303, 304 extending in the machine direction (MD). First 303 and second 304 edges of the second web 300 are typically straight and parallel to one another. The second web 300 may have the same dimensions as the first web 200, as shown in Figure 1. However, it may be possible that the second web 300 has an extension in the cross-direction (CD) which is greater than or less than that of the first web 200. Suitably, the second web 300 has a basis weight of between 10-40g/m². The second web 300 should be air-permeable.

A first adhesive 250 is applied to at least a portion of the first face 201 of the first web 200.

The first adhesive 250 may be sprayed on the first face 201 of the first web 200, as shown in Figure 1 , but other methods of application may also be used, e.g. slot-coating, multi- bead coating, extrusion or rolling. A preferred method of applying adhesive is slot- coating. The first adhesive 250 is typically applied to the first web 200 in amounts between 5 and 30gsm, preferably between 5 and 15gsm.

5 Suitable adhesives for the first adhesive 250 may be e.g. H4281 RF from Bostik, NW1002 from HB Fuller GmbH or Dispomelt 5482 from National S&C.

The first adhesive 250 may be applied to the entire first face 201 of the first web 200. However, in the interests of economy, the first adhesive 250 is only applied to a portion of 10 the first face 201 of the first web 200. The first adhesive 250 may be applied to the first web 200 in a substantially uniform manner, but preferably, the first adhesive 250 is applied to the first web 200 in a pattern (P) which corresponds to the pattern (P) in which the elastic threads 500 are applied to the first web 200 (see below).

15 At least one elastic thread 500 is applied on at least the portion of said first face 201 of said first web 200 which comprises said first adhesive 250. The elastic threads 500 will eventually form the leg elastics of a pant-type article 20, or an absorbent article 10 of the open-diaper type. Suitable elastic threads 500 comprise e.g. C17A from Plymouth SA (synthetic elastic, profile 0.2mm x 2mm x 6 ends to be split up in the process) or XA T-

20 262P 1A216 from Invista (HOOdtex single thread on spool, circular profile). Although the term "thread" is used in the present specification, the term is to be interpreted as including narrow bands of elastic material (e.g. with a width of less than 1 cm). The elastic threads 500 are supplied in a continuous manner from e.g. a roll. It may be possible that only one elastic thread 500 is applied to the first web 200, although more than one, e.g. 2, 3 or

25 even 4 elastic threads 500 may be applied. In the case a plurality of elastic threads 500 is used, all elastic threads 500 should be applied substantially in parallel.

The at least one thread 500 is applied in a pattern (P), as shown in Figure 1. The pattern (P) corresponds to the form of the leg elastics of an absorbent article. The pattern (P) 30 oscillates in the cross-direction (CD) and extends in the machine direction (MD) of the first web 200. The pattern (P) is aligned such that it extends over the first edge 203 of the first web 200, as shown in Figure 1. Loops 501 are thus formed in said elastic thread 500 which project in the cross-direction (CD) from the first edge 203 of said first web 200. Figure 1 shows a wavy pattern (P); however, the pattern (P) can take a variety of oscillating forms, and may comprise one or more straight (linear) sections, a zig-zag form, a sinusoidal form or variations on such patterns (P).

As the elastic threads 500 are applied to the first web 200, the loops 501 which project in 5 the cross-direction (CD) from the first edge 203 of said first web 200 are secured in a loop retaining means 410 which is located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200. Suitably, the loop retaining means 410 is spaced from the first edge 203, so as to allow the subsequent cutting step(s) to take place.

10 Loop retaining means 410 acts to secure the loops 501. It is important that loops 501 are secured, so that - when the leading edge of each loop 501 is cut in the following steps - the loop 501 does not simply retract completely, but instead, tension is maintained between the following edge of each loop and the loop retaining means 410.

15 The loop retaining means 410 can take various forms. Figure 1 shows loop retaining means 410 in the form of a vacuum member. The loops 501 are essentially sucked onto the vacuum member and secured thereto by suction. After cutting the loops 501 , the vacuum is stopped, and the loops 501 are released.

20 Figure 2 shows loop retaining means 410 in the form of two members, between which the loops 501 are secured. Loop retaining means 410 can equally comprise three or more members, between which the loops 501 are secured. The loops 501 are essentially pinched between the members of the loop retaining means 410, and then, after the loops 501 are cut, the members are separated, and the loops 501 are released.

25

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 3, the loop retaining means 410 comprises at least one first 401 and at least one second 402 resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge 2.03 of said first web 200. The loops 501 are therefore secured in a nip 400 between at least one first 401 and at least one second 402 resilient belt. The resilient belts 401 ,

30 402 may be made of rubber, or any other suitable resilient material. As shown in Figures 3, 3A and 4, one resilient belt 401 may have a cross-section such that it can engage with one or more recesses in the other resilient belt 402. To this effect, one resilient belt 401 may comprise one or more protrusions which can engage with one or more recesses in the other resilient belt 402, as illustrated. Alternatively, one resilient belt 401 may have a

35 cross-section which is e.g. circular, semi-circular, oval, triangular or square and which can engage with one or more recesses in the other resilient belt 402. This profiled arrangement allows close contact between the belts 401 , 402, and allows the loops 501 of the elastic thread 500 to be tightly secured between the resilient belts 401 , 402. Alternatively, or additionally, to having recesses/protrusions, the belts 401 , 402 may comprise high-friction surfaces which grip the loops 501 securely.

As shown in Figures 1-3, the first face 301 of the second web 300 is applied on the first face 201 of the first web 200. First 200 and second 300 webs are fixed together such that said at least one elastic thread 500 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of the respective first and second webs 200, 300. First and second webs 200, 300 may be fixed together by any suitable means, e.g. thermal welding, ultrasonic welding or adhesion. Adhesion is most preferred. Suitably, the first adhesive 250 which is used to secure the at least one elastic thread 500 to the first web 200 can also be used to secure the first 200 and second 300 webs together. Additional adhesive as required may be applied to the first face 301 of the second web 300 and/or the first face 201 of the first web 200. First 200 and second 300 webs are suitably fixed to one another across substantially their entire area of overlap.

The dimensions of the second web 300 are essentially independent of the dimensions of the first web 200. Similarly, the amount with which the second web 300 overlaps the first web 200 may be selected appropriately by the skilled person. Preferably, the dimensions of the second web 300, and the amount of overlap between first 200 and second webs 300, are such that the second web 300 overlaps the first web 200 in the entire region of the first web 200 in which elastic threads 500 are located.

Suitably (as shown in Figures 1-3) the first face 301 of the second web 300 is applied on the first face 201 of the first web 200 such that the first edge 303 of the second web 300 is substantially aligned with the first edge 203 of the first web 200. Additionally, but not necessarily, the first and second webs 200, 300 may have substantially the same width, such that both first 303 and second 304 edges of the second web 300 are substantially aligned with first 203 and second 204 edges of the first web 200, respectively. It may be possible that the second web 300 has an extension in the cross-direction (CD) which is greater than or less than that of the first web 200. It may also be possible that the second web 300 is applied to the first web 200 so that the first edge 303 of the second web 300 is not substantially aligned with the first edge 203 of the first web 200; i.e. that the first edge 303 of the second web 300 is offset in the cross- direction (CD) from the first edge 203 of the first web 200. Thus, the second web 300 may extend in the cross-direction out from the first edge 203 of the first web 200, and may even completely overlap with the loops 501 of elastic thread 500. Depending on the extent to which the first edge 303 of the second web 300 is offset from the first edge 203 of the first web 200, it may be possible, or even necessary, that the second web 300 is also secured in the nip 400 between at least one first 401 and at least one second 402 resilient belts.

Suitably, and as shown in Figure 4, the steps of:

- applying at least one elastic thread 500 on at least the portion of the first face 201 of the first web 200 which comprises said first adhesive 250 - securing the loops 501 in a nip 400 between at least one first 401 and at least one second 402 resilient belt, and

- applying the first face 301 of said second web 300 on the first face 201 of said first web 200 and fixing said first 200 and second 300 webs together; may occur substantially simultaneously in a single nip 400.

While the elastic threads 500 are still held in the loop retaining means nip 410, (e.g. in a nip 400 between first 401 and second 402 resilient belts) the elastic threads 500 are cut by cutting means 605 substantially at each point at which the elastic thread 500 crosses the first edge 203 of the first web 200. The loops 501 therefore become detached from the first web 200. As shown in Figure 3, the resilient belts 401 , 402 are separated from one another, and loops 501 removed from the remainder of the elasticated web 100. Suitably, vacuum means 630 is used to remove the loops 501 from the process.

Cutting the elastic threads 500 may take place in an essentially continuous manner. If the first edge 303 of the second web 300 is substantially aligned with the first edge 203 of the first web 200, as described above, continuous cutting is preferred, as only the loops 501 in the elastic threads 500 will be cut. Continuous cutting may also be used if the second web 300 extends further in the cross-direction than the first edge 203 of the first web 200; in this case, a strip of the second web 300 will also be cut from the elasticated web 100. Intermittent cutting may also be used to cut the elastic threads 500. In this case, cuts are only made substantially at each point at which the elastic thread 500 crosses the first edge 203 of the first web 200. If the second web 300 extends further in the cross- direction (CD) than the first edge 203 of the first web 200, intermittent cutting will allow the entire width of the second web 300 in the cross-direction (CD) to be maintained in the elasticated web 100. The second web 300 may therefore comprise small cuts at each point at which the elastic thread 500 crosses the first edge 203 of the first web 200.

After cutting, the elasticated web 100 having discontinuous elastic threads 510 is provided. This elasticated web 100 may be rolled up and stored, or used directly to produce pant-type articles 20 or absorbent articles 10 of the open-diaper type. In that loop retaining means 410 (such as resilient belts 401 , 402) is used to retain the elastic threads 500 in the production of the elasticated web 100, undesired pieces of elastic are captured, controlled and safely disposed of during the process. In addition, the tension in the discontinuous elastic threads 510 can be controlled, and cutting of the elastic threads

500 can be performed accurately, as the elastic threads 500 are held in tension by the loop retaining means 410.

The invention therefore relates to an elasticated web 100 produced according to the methods described herein, and the elasticated web 100 per se. The elasticated web 100 of the invention is illustrated in Figures 1-3, and shown in cross-section in Figure 3B. The elasticated web 100 has discontinuous elastic threads 510 and comprises:

- a first web 200, said first web 200 having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first 201 and second 202 faces and a first edge 203 and a second edge 204, said first and second edges 203, 204 extending in the machine direction (MD); and

- a second web 300, said second web 300 also having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first 301 and second 302 faces and a first edge 303 and a second edge 304, said first and second edges 303, 304 extending in the machine direction (MD).

A first adhesive 250 is arranged on at least a portion of the first face 201 of said first web 200. At least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 arranged on at least the portion of the first face 201 of the first web 200 which comprises said first adhesive 250. The first face 301 of said second web 300 overlies the first face 201 of said first web 200, to form a laminate. The first 200 and second webs 300 are fixed together such that the at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of said respective first and second webs 200, 300. 5

The at least one discontinuous thread 510 is present between the first and second webs 200, 300 in a pattern (R), as per Figures 1-3. Pattern (R) corresponds to the portion of pattern (P), described above, which is located on the first web 200. The pattern (R) thus forms loops 520 which extend from the first edge 203 of the first web 200 and back to the

10 first edge 203 of the first web 200; so that the discontinuous elastic threads 510 terminate at each point at which they meet the first edge 203 of said first web 200. The curves of the pattern (R) may be curved; however, the pattern (R) can take a variety of forms, and may comprise one or more straight (linear) sections or variations on such patterns (R). The loops 520 of the pattern (R) should have an axis of symmetry lying in the cross-

15 direction (CD), in order for each absorbent article 10, or pant-type article 20 to have an axis of symmetry.

The method according to the present invention allows the elasticated web 100 to be formed, which is not possible with the methods of the prior art. In particular - in that the 20 elastic threads 500 are secured by loop retaining means 410 - elastic threads 500 are in tension, which allows accurate cutting of the elastic threads 500 to be carried out. In turn, this means that discontinuous elastic threads 510 can terminate at each point at which they meet the first edge 203 of said first web 200.

25 Figure 3A is an expanded cross-sectional view of the nascent elasticated web 100 along the line IHA-IIIA in Figure 3, i.e. prior to cutting the elastic threads 500. It shows the first web 200, the second web 300 and the elastic threads 500 (which project in the cross- direction (CD) from the first edge 203 of said first web 200) secured between the first 401 and second 402 resilient belt. In addition, Figure 3A shows the resilient belts 401 , 402

30 having a particular profile which promotes a secure grip on the elastic threads.

Figure 3B is an expanded cross-sectional view of the elasticated web 100 along the line IHB-IIIB in Figure 3; i.e. after cutting the elastic threads 500. It shows the first web 200, the second web 300 and the discontinuous elastic threads 510 laminated between first 35 200 and second 300 webs. The invention also provides a method for manufacturing pant-type articles 20, as illustrated in Figure 5. Firstly, elasticated webs 100 having discontinuous elastic threads 510 are provided according to the method in Figures 1-3. The elasticated web 100 has first and second edges 103, 104 extending in the machine direction (MD)₁ and also has discontinuous elastic threads 510. The discontinuous elastic threads 510 are sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300 and extend to the first edge 103 of said elasticated web 100.

First and second such elasticated webs 100 are arranged adjacent one another and in a spaced relationship such that the first edges 103 of each of said elasticated webs 100 are located closest to one another and aligned substantially parallel to one another. The first edge 103 of the elasticated web 100 is that edge which comprises the first edge 203 of the first 200 and/or second 300 web. The first and second elasticated webs 100 are synchronised such that each discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the first elasticated web 100 is located opposite a corresponding discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the second elasticated web 100. This is shown in Figure 5.

First and second elasticated webs 100 may be produced in parallel according to the embodiment of Figure 1-3, preferably Figure 3. In this case, the process illustrated in Figures 1-3 is carried out to produce first and second elasticated webs 100 in a side-by- side fashion immediately prior to manufacturing pant-type articles 20. Alternatively, first and second elasticated webs 100 may be produced independently, and then arranged adjacent one another prior to manufacturing pant-type articles 20.

The first and second elasticated webs 100 are bridged with a third component. Bridging may take place in a number of ways, depending on the nature of the pant-type article which is desired.

A first option is to join the first and second elasticated webs 100 by means of a fourth web 900. A fourth web 900 is thus placed so as to overlie the first edges 103 of the first and second elasticated webs 100, and is fixed to both first and second elasticated webs 100. Fixing of the fourth web 900 may be carried out using any known method, such as e.g. thermal welding, ultrasonic welding or adhesion. Adhesion is most preferred, and any suitable adhesive such as that used as the first adhesive 250 may be used. This option is used to manufacture pant-type articles 20 having a crotch layer 180, but which do not contain absorbent packets 130, which articles 20 are discussed further in relation to Figure 11 , below.

5 A second option is to join the first and second elasticated webs 100 by means of an absorbent packet 130. The absorbent packet 130 generally comprises an absorbent core

133 covered by one or more cover layers 134.

The absorbent core 133 can be of any conventional kind. Examples of commonly

10 occurring absorbent materials are cellulosic fluff pulp, tissue layers, highly absorbent polymers (so called superabsorbents), absorbent foam materials, absorbent nonwoven materials or the like. It is common to combine cellulosic fluff pulp with superabsorbents in an absorbent body. The thin absorbent bodies, which are common in for example baby diapers and incontinence guards, often comprise a compressed mixed or layered

15 structure of cellulosic fluff pulp and superabsorbent. The size and absorbent capacity of the absorbent core may be varied to be suited for different uses such as for infants or for incontinent adults. The absorbent core 133 may comprise one or more layers which may be selected to improve the handling of bodily waste. Such layers are designed to receive a large amount of liquid in a short space of time and distribute it evenly across the

20 absorbent core 133. They may include so-called transfer, distribution, surge or acquisition layers.

Cover layers 134 surround the absorbent core 133, and act to maintain the integrity and shape of the absorbent core 133, and to provide good attachment to the elasticated webs 25 100. Cover layers 134 may also provide the absorbent core 133 with appropriate liquid- handling properties, and are therefore suitably different on each face of the absorbent core 133. For example, the face of the absorbent core 133 which is to face the wearer may comprise a cover layer 134 which exhibits rapid liquid intake, while the cover layer

134 of the absorbent core 133 which is to face the wearer's garment may exhibit liquid- 30 barrier properties.

Absorbent packets 130 are thus placed so as to overlie the first edges 103 of the first and second elasticated webs 100, and fixed to both first and second elasticated webs 100.

The absorbent packet 130 may be applied in such a way that the side edges of the packet

35 are located adjacent the ends of the discontinuous threads 510. Fixing of the absorbent packet may be carried out using any known method, such as e.g. thermal welding, ultrasonic welding or adhesion. Adhesion is most preferred, and any suitable adhesive such as that used as the first adhesive 250 may be used.

Depending on the design of the absorbent packet 130, and its purpose, the packet 130 can overlap first and second elasticated webs 100 to the same extent, or it may overlap one elasticated web 100 to a greater extent that the other. The absorbent packet 130 is fixed in a position located equidistant from two adjacent discontinuous elastic threads 510 in the transverse direction. Preferably, the absorbent packet 130 does not overlap with the discontinuous elastic threads 510, but it may do so.

This option is used to manufacture pant-type articles containing absorbent packets 130, which do not contain a crotch layer 180. Such articles are discussed further in relation to Figure 12, below.

A third option is to join the first and second elasticated webs 100 by means of both a fourth web 900 and an absorbent packet 130. Fourth web 900 and absorbent packets 130 are placed so as to overlie the first edges 103 of the first and second elasticated webs 100, and at least one of said fourth web 900 and/or said absorbent packet 130 is fixed to both first and second elasticated webs 100, so as to bridge the first and second elasticated webs 100. Suitably, both the fourth web 900 and the absorbent packet 130 are fixed to both first and second elasticated webs 100. However, it is possible that the absorbent packet is only fixed to the fourth web 900, or to one of the first and second elasticated webs 100. This third option is used to manufacture pant-type articles containing absorbent packets 130 and a crotch layer 180. Such articles are discussed further in relation to Figure 13, below.

An optional - yet preferred - step is to cut a leg region 122 out of one or both elasticated webs 100 and - if present - said fourth web 900, as shown in Figure 5. Indeed, if a fourth web is present, it is essential to cut a leg region out of at least this fourth web 900. Each leg region 122 is defined substantially by discontinuous elastic thread 510 so as to form leg openings 121. Cutting the leg region 122 is shown in Figure 5 as occurring after fixing the absorbent packets 130; however, it may take place before absorbent packets 130 are fixed to the elasticated webs 100. Cutting the leg region 122 out may take place through mechanical means (e.g. blades or punches) or methods such as laser, water cutting jet, ultrasonic or thermal cutting, or combinations thereof. Use of a rotary die cutter (RDC) is a preferred technique.

The next step in Figure 5 is that the co-joined elasticated webs 100 are folded along a fold-line (F), so that second edges 104 of each elasticated web 100 become arranged substantially adjacent one another and substantially parallel, with the fourth web 900 located on the outside of the fold and/or the absorbent packet 130 located on the inside of the fold.

The first and second elasticated webs 100, in their folded configuration, are then joined to each other along lines (C), said lines (C) extending substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the second edges 104 of each elasticated web 100 to the fold-line (F). The lines (C) are located substantially at the point at which the at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is located furthest from the first edge 103 of each elasticated web 100. The join which is thus made will eventually form side-seams 131. Joining can take place by adhesion, thermal or ultrasonic welding or any common method known in the art.

Each elasticated web 100 and - if present - the fourth web 900 is then cut along lines (C) such that first and second elasticated webs 100 remain joined on either side of the cut. Cutting along lines (C) extending substantially in the cross direction (CD) separates the individual pant-type articles 20 from each other in the elasticated web 100. Pant-type articles 20 are thereby produced.

Additional material layers may be added to the pant-type articles 20 at any point during the above-described manufacturing process. For example, a topsheet comprising a nonwoven or nonwoven laminate may be added to the pant-type articles 20 on the side which is intended to face the wearer's skin. A liquid-impermeable backsheet may be added to the pant-type articles 20 on the side which is intended to face the wearer's garments.

The pant-type articles 20 of the invention may comprise additional components such as waist elastics 135, body elastics 137 and standing gathers 136. Suitable methods for applying such components will be known to the skilled person. The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing absorbent articles 10, in the form of open diapers, so-called "all-in-one" diapers. This method is illustrated in Figure 6.

As above, for the pant-type article 20, the first step of the method for manufacturing absorbent articles 10 is providing an elasticated web 100, said elasticated web 100 having first and second edges 103, 104 extending in the machine direction (MD); said elasticated web 100 also having discontinuous elastic threads 510 in which discontinuous elastic threads 510 are sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300 and extend to the first edge 103 of said elasticated web 100.

First and second such elasticated webs 100 are arranged adjacent one another and in a spaced relationship such that first edges 103 of each of said elasticated webs 100 are located closest to one another and aligned substantially parallel to one another. The first and second elasticated webs 100 are synchronised such that each discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the first elasticated web 100 is located opposite a corresponding discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the second elasticated web 100. This is illustrated in Figure 6.

First and second elasticated webs 100 may be produced in parallel according to the embodiment of Figures 1-3, preferably Figure 3. In this case, the process illustrated in Figures 1-3 is carried out to produce first and second elasticated webs 100 in a side-by- side fashion immediately prior to manufacturing absorbent articles 10. Alternatively, first and second elasticated webs 100 may be produced independently, and then arranged adjacent one another prior to manufacturing absorbent articles 10.

An absorbent packet 130 is placed so as to overlie at least a portion of the first and/or second elasticated webs 100. The absorbent packet 130 may be fixed to both first and second elasticated webs 100, or only one of said elasticated webs 100. If no fourth web 900 is present, the absorbent packet 130 should be fixed to both first and second elasticated webs 100, so as to bridge them. Fixing of the absorbent packet may be carried out using any known method, such as e.g. thermal welding, ultrasonic welding or adhesion. Adhesion is most preferred, and any suitable adhesive such as that used as the first adhesive 250 may be used. The nature and form of the absorbent packet 130 is as described above. If desired, a fourth web 900 is also placed so as to overlie the first edges 103 of the first and second elasticated webs 100. At least one of said fourth web 900 and/or said absorbent packet 130 is fixed to both first and second elasticated webs 100. Both fourth web 900 and absorbent packet 130 may be fixed to both first and second elasticated webs 100. It is preferred that at least the fourth web 900 is fixed to both first and second elasticated webs 100. If a fourth web is present, absorbent articles 10 are produced which have a crotch layer 180, as shown in Figure 18. Such articles are discussed further in relation to Figure 18, below. If no fourth web 900 is present, absorbent articles 10 are produced which do not have a crotch layer 180, as shown in Figure 19. Such articles are discussed further in relation to Figure 19, below.

Leg regions 122 of said fourth web 900, and optionally said first and/or second elasticated webs 100, are then cut out. Each leg region 122 is defined substantially within said elasticated webs 100 by discontinuous elastic threads 510.

The co-joined elasticated webs 100 and - if present - the fourth web 900 are then cut along lines (C), said lines (C) extending substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the second edge 104 of one elasticated web 100 to the second edge 104 of the other elasticated web 100. As before, for the pant-type article, lines (C) are located substantially at the point at which the at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is located furthest from the first edge 103 of each elasticated web 100.

Fastening means 132 are then provided on at least one of said first and second elasticated webs 100. The fastening means 132 are suitably located on the outside face of the absorbent article 10. Fastening means 132 may comprise a hook-and-loop fastening means or adhesive fastening means. One component of the fastening means 132 (e.g. a hook component) may be provided on the first elasticated web 100, while the corresponding component (e.g. a loop component) may be provided on the second elasticated web 100. Alternatively, it may be possible to attach the fastening means 132 to the elasticated web 100 itself (e.g. a hook fastening means may attach to a nonwoven material which constitutes the elasticated web 100, or an adhesive fastening means may attach to a plastic film which constitutes the elasticated web 100). In this case, it may be sufficient that fastening means 132 is only provided on one elasticated web 100. The nature of the fastening means 132, their location in the diaper and suitable methods for their provision are known to the skilled person.

The absorbent articles 10 of the invention may comprise additional components such as 5 waist elastics 135, body elastics 137 and standing gathers 136. Suitable methods for applying such components will be known to the skilled person.

The invention also provides an apparatus 600 for manufacturing an elasticated web 100 having discontinuous elastic threads 510 according to the embodiment illustrated in 10 Figure 1-3.

The apparatus 600 is illustrated schematically in Figure 4, and comprises: first web supply means 601 , for supplying said first web 200; second web supply means 602, for supplying said second web 300; 15 elastic thread supply means 603 for supplying said at least one elastic thread 500; adhesive supply means 604 for supplying said first adhesive 250; and elastic cutting means 605 for cutting said at least one elastic thread 500.

The first web supply means 601 typically comprises a supply of first web 200 (e.g. a roll)

20 and means adapted for feeding said first web 200 in the machine direction. The first web supply means 601 may comprise any suitable combination of cylinders, belts, rods tensioning means or the like. Similarly, the second web supply means 602 typically comprises a supply of second web 300 (e.g. a roll) and means adapted for feeding said second web 300 in the machine direction. The second web supply means 602 may

25 comprise any suitable combination of cylinders, belts, rods, tensioning means or the like.

The adhesive supply means 604 is arranged so as to apply a first adhesive 250 to at least a portion of the first face 201 of said first web 200. The adhesive supply means 604 typically comprises a slot coater, roller, sprayer or similar. The adhesive supply means 30 604 can reciprocate in the cross-direction, so as to be able to apply the first adhesive 250 to the first face 201 of the first web 200 in a pattern (P). It can also be divided into several crosswise sections so as to be able to apply adhesive in a pattern.

The elastic thread supply means 603 is arranged so as to apply at least one elastic thread 35 500 on at least the portion of the first face 201 of the first web 200 which comprises said first adhesive 250. Guide fingers are suitable elastic thread supply means, and comprise elongated members which can reciprocate in the cross-direction.

The elastic thread supply means 603 applies the at least one thread 500 in a pattern (P). The pattern (P) oscillates in the cross-direction (CD) and extends in the machine direction (MD). The pattern (P) extends over the first edge 203 of the first web 200 to form loops 501 in the elastic threads 500 which project in the cross-direction (CD) from said first edge 203 of said first web 200, as per Figures 1-3.

The second web supply means 602 is arranged so as to apply the first face 301 of the second web 300 on the first face 201 of said first web 200, and fix said first 200 and second webs 300 together such that said at least one elastic thread 500 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300 (see Figure 4).

The elastic cutting means 605 is illustrated in Figure 4 as a rotating circular blade, although other types of cutting means may be suitable (e.g. a fixed blade, laser cutting, ultrasonic cutting). As described above, cutting may be continuous, or intermittent. Continuous cutting may be performed by a rotating circular blade (as per Figure 4), or a fixed blade. Intermittent cutting may be carried out by a rotating circular blade, or a fixed blade, which is moved intermittently towards and away from the elastic threads 500. Alternatively, intermittent cutting may be carried out by a rotating blade having raised cutting portions and recessed non-cutting portions. For intermittent cutting processes, it is important that the cutting action is synchronised, so that cutting only takes place substantially at the points at which elastic threads 500 are present.

The elastic cutting means 605 is arranged so as to cut all the elastic threads 500 substantially at the point at which each elastic thread 500 crosses the first edge 203 of said first web 200. In this way, the loops 501 become detached from the first web 200.

The apparatus 600 additionally comprises loop retaining means 410 located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200 and which is adapted so as to secure the loops 501 in said loop retaining means 410. Suitably, the loop retaining means 410 is spaced from the first edge 203, so as to allow the subsequent cutting step(s) to take place. The loop retaining means 410 may be any loop retaining means described above in relation to Figures 1-3.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, loop retaining means 410 comprises at least one first 401 and at least one second 402 resilient belt which are located adjacent (i.e. outside) the first edge 203 of said first web 200. Combinations of various numbers of resilient belts 401 , 402 may be used. The resilient belts 401 , 402 may be made of rubber, or any other suitable resilient material. Suitable belts having the profile shown for the second belt 402 in Figure 4, can be obtained from Abatron AB, Bromma, Sweden with the tradename Correx, Beige or Polythan Grϋn. Suitable belts having a circular profile can be obtained from Habasit AB, Hindas, Sweden, under the tradename Polycord R8. Resilient belts 401 , 402 are typically located a distance of between 1 and 10cm from the first edge 203 of the first web 200.

The resilient belts 401 , 402 are adapted so as to secure the loops 501 in a nip 400 between said at least one first 401 and said at least one second 402 resilient belt. This may occur in that the loops 501 are secured between substantially flat faces of resilient belts 401 , 402 and held in place by friction. However, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the resilient belts 401 , 402 may be profiled such that one resilient belt engages with one or more recesses in the other resilient belt. This profiled arrangement allows close contact between the belts 401 , 402, and allows the loops 501 of the elastic thread 500 to be tightly secured between the resilient belts 401 , 402. Although a simple profiled arrangement is shown in Figures 3 and 4, consisting of one protrusion on one resilient belt which engages with one recess in the other resilient belt, variations in the profile of each resilient belt may be made by the skilled person (e.g. two protrusions on one belt which engage with two recesses in the other belt, or a belt which has a cross-section (e.g circular, semi-circular, triangular etc.), allowing it to engage with a recess in the other resilient belt). Alternatively, or additionally, to having recesses/protrusions, the belts 401 , 402 may comprise high-friction surfaces which grip the loops 501 securely.

As shown in Figure 4, the first web 200 and second web 300 may be fixed together in a single nip 400. The nip 400 is formed between two cylinders of the web supply means 601 , 602. First web 200, second web 300, elastic threads 500 and resilient belts 401 , 402 are brought together in this nip 400, thereby fixing these components together in a convenient and effective manner. As is also illustrated in Figure 4, first web supply means 601 , second web supply means 602, elastic thread supply means 603 for supplying at least one elastic thread 500, adhesive supply means 604, cutting means 605 and at least one first 401 and at least one second 402 resilient belts are suitably arranged peripherally about a single central cylinder 620. However, other arrangements of these components are possible (e.g. linear).

The apparatus 600 described above may comprise additional components, making it suitable for manufacturing pant-type articles 20. The apparatus for manufacturing the pant-type articles 20 is illustrated schematically in Figure 5. In this case, the apparatus 600 additionally comprises; elasticated web supply means 606; for supply of first and second elasticated web 100 - fourth web supply means 616, for supply of fourth web 900 and/or absorbent packet supply means 618, for supply of absorbent packets 130 leg region cutting means 608, for cutting out leg regions 122 folding means 617 for folding the co-joined elasticated webs 100 joining means 614 for joining the first and second elasticated webs 100 - elasticated web cutting means 609, for cutting elasticated webs 100 and - if present - the fourth web 900

The elasticated web supply means 606 is arranged so as to provide first and second elasticated webs 100 adjacent one another and in a spaced relationship such that the first edges 103 of each of said elasticated webs 100 are located closest to one another and aligned substantially parallel to one another. The elasticated web supply means 606 typically comprises a supply of first and second elasticated webs 100 (e.g. rolls) and means adapted for feeding said webs 100 in a machine direction. The elasticated web supply means 606 may comprise any suitable combination of cylinders, belts, rods, web tensioners or the like. The first and second elasticated webs 100 are synchronised such that each discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the first elasticated web 100 is located opposite a corresponding discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the second elasticated web 100. First and second elasticated webs 100 may be produced in parallel. In this case, the process illustrated in Figures 1-3 is carried out to produce first and second elasticated webs 100 in a side-by-side fashion immediately prior to manufacturing pant-type articles 20. Alternatively, first and second elasticated webs 100 may be produced independently, 5 and then arranged adjacent one another prior to manufacturing pant-type articles 20. First and second elasticated webs 100 need not be identical - they may differ in their width in the cross-direction (CD) or in their arrangement of the discontinuous elastic threads 510.

10 If the pant-type article 20 is to comprise a crotch layer 180, the apparatus 600 comprises a fourth web supply means 616. The fourth web supply means 616 is arranged so as to place a fourth web 900 so as to overlie the first edges 103 of the first and second elasticated webs 100, and to fix said fourth web 900 to both first and second elasticated webs 100. The fourth web supply means 616 typically comprises a supply of fourth web

15 900 (e.g. a roll of this web) and means adapted for feeding said web 900 in a machine direction. The fourth web supply means 616 may comprise any suitable combination of cylinders, belts, rods, web tensioners or the like.

If the pant-type article 20 is to comprise an absorbent packet 130, the apparatus 600 20 comprises absorbent packet supply means 618. The absorbent packet supply means 618 is arranged so as to place an absorbent packet 130 so as to overlie the first edges 103 of the first and second elasticated webs 100, and to fix said absorbent packet 130 to at least one of the first or second elasticated webs 100. In this way, at least one of the fourth web 900 and/or the absorbent packet 130 is fixed to both first and second elasticated webs 25 100, so as to bridge them. The absorbent packet supply means 618 typically comprises a supply of absorbent packets 130 (e.g. a stack or roll) any suitable combination of cylinders, belts, rods or the like arranged so as to feed the absorbent packets 130 onto the first and second elasticated webs 100.

30 The absorbent packet 130 is suitably fixed to both first and second elasticated webs 100, although - if a fourth web 900 is present to bridge the elasticated webs 100 - it may only be fixed to one of the elasticated webs 100, or only the fourth web 900. Fixing of the absorbent packet may be carried out using any known method, such as e.g. thermal welding, ultrasonic welding or adhesion. Adhesion is most preferred, and any suitable

35 adhesive such as that used as the first adhesive 250 may be used. The absorbent packet supply means 618 therefore comprises means for fixing the absorbent packets 130 to the elasticated webs 100.

The leg region cutting means 608 shown in Figure 5 is arranged so as to cut out a leg region 122 of one or both elasticated webs 100 and - if present - said fourth web 900.

Each leg region 122 is defined substantially by discontinuous elastic threads 510 in each of the elasticated webs 100, so as to form leg openings 121. Leg region cutting means

608 may comprise mechanical means (e.g. blades or punches) or other cutting means such as lasers, ultrasonic or thermal cutting means, rotary die cutters or combinations thereof. Leg region cutting means 608 may be arranged before or after absorbent packet supply means 618 in the apparatus 600. Equally, leg region cutting means 608 may be arranged before or after folding means 617.

The folding means 617 shown in Figure 5 is arranged so as to fold the co-joined elasticated webs 100 along a fold-line (F), so that second edges 104 of each elasticated web 100 become arranged substantially adjacent one another and substantially parallel. . The absorbent packet 130 is located on the inside of the fold. Folding means 617 may comprise any suitable combination of reciprocating or rotating members (e.g. arms or drums) webguides (e.g. metal sheets or rods), belts or the like.

The joining means 614 shown in Figure 5 is arranged so as to join the first and second elasticated webs 100 to each other along lines (C). The lines (C) extend substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the second edges 104 of each elasticated web 100 to the fold-line (F), and are located substantially at the point at which the at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is located furthest from the first edge 103 of each elasticated web 100. Joining along lines (C) forms side-seams 131 in the nascent pant- type article 20. Joining can take place by adhesion, thermal or ultrasonic welding or any common method known in the art.

An elasticated web cutting means 609 is arranged in Figure 5 so as to cut each elasticated web 100 and - if present - the fourth web 900, along lines (C) such that first and second elasticated webs 100 remain joined on either side of the cut. If the line (C) crosses the fourth web 900, the fourth web 900 may also be cut. Individual pant-type articles 20 are thus produced. The pant-type articles 20 of the invention may comprise additional components such as waist elastics 135, body elastics 137 and standing gathers 136. Suitable methods for applying such components will be known to the skilled person.

In order to manufacture absorbent articles 10 in the form of open diapers, as illustrated in Figure 6, the apparatus 600 comprises; elasticated web supply means 606; for supply of first and second elasticated web 100 absorbent packet supply means 618, for supply of absorbent packets 130 - optionally, fourth web supply means 616, for supply of fourth web 900 leg region cutting means 608, for cutting out leg regions 122 elasticated web cutting means 609, for cutting elasticated webs 100, and - if present - the fourth web 900 and fastening supply means 615, for supply of fastening means 132.

As before, the elasticated web supply means 606 is arranged so as to provide first and second elasticated webs 100 adjacent one another and in a spaced relationship such that the first edges 103 of each of said elasticated webs 100 are located closest to one another and aligned substantially parallel to one another. The first and second elasticated webs 100 are synchronised such that each discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the first elasticated web 100 is located opposite a corresponding discontinuous elastic thread 510 in the second elasticated web 100.

The absorbent packet supply means 618 is arranged so as to place an absorbent packet 130 so as to overlie at least a portion of the first and second elasticated webs 100. The absorbent packet supply means 618 is also adapted to fix the absorbent packet 130 to at least one of said first and second elasticated webs 100, or to the fourth web 900 if present.

If the absorbent article 10 is to comprise a crotch layer 180, the apparatus 600 comprises a fourth web supply means 616. The fourth web supply means 616 is arranged so as to place a fourth web 900 so as to overlie the first edges 103 of the first and second elasticated webs 100, At least one of said fourth web 900 and/or said absorbent packet 130 are fixed to both first and second elasticated webs 100, so as to bridge the first and second elasticated webs 100. The leg region cutting means 608 is arranged so as to cut out a leg region 122 of one or both elasticated webs 100 and - if present - said fourth web 900. Each leg region 122 is defined substantially by discontinuous elastic threads 510 in each of the elasticated webs 5 100, so as to form leg openings 121.

An elasticated web cutting means 609 is arranged so as to cut the co-joined elasticated webs 100 and - if present - the fourth web 900 along lines (C). The lines (C) extend substantially in the cross direction CD from the second edge 104 of one elasticated web 10 100 to the second edge 104 of the other elasticated web 100, and are located substantially at the point at which the at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is located furthest from the first edge 103 of each elasticated web 100.

Fastening supply means 615 is arranged so as to provide fastening means 132 on at least

15 one of said first and second elasticated webs 100. Fastening supply means 615 comprises a supply of fastening means 132 (e.g. a roll or stack) and means for feeding them to the nascent absorbent article 10 (e.g. nips, cylinders or belts) and means for joining the fastening means 615 to the article 10. Fastening means 132 may be joined to the absorbent article 10 by means of welding or gluing. Fastening means 132 are

20 discussed in more detail above.

The absorbent articles 10 of the invention may comprise additional components such as waist elastics 135, body elastics 137 and standing gathers 136. Suitable methods for applying such components will be known to the skilled person.

25

In a second embodiment, illustrated in Figure 7, the present invention provides a method for manufacturing an elasticated web 140 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511. In this second embodiment, the elasticated web 140 comprises a laminate of first 200 and second 300 webs, with discontinuous elastic threads 510 sandwiched between said first

30 200 and second 300 webs, as per the first embodiment. On a different portion of the second web 300, a third web 700 is laminated, with discontinuous elastic threads 51 1 sandwiched between said third 700 and second 300 webs.

A first web 200 is provided, said first web 200 having a primary extension in the machine 35 direction (MD), first 201 and second 202 faces and a first edge 203 and a second edge 204, said first and second edges 203, 204 extending in the machine direction (MD). A second web 300 is also provided, said second web 300 also having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first 301 and second 302 faces and a first edge 303 and a second edge 304, said first and second edges 303, 304 extending in the machine direction (MD).

A third web 700 is also provided said third web 700 having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first 701 and second 702 faces and a first edge 703 and a second edge 704, said first and second edges 703, 704 extending in the machine direction (MD). The second web 300 typically (but not necessarily) has an extension in the cross-direction (CD) which is equal to or greater than the combined extension of the first 200 and third 700 webs in the cross-direction (CD). Figure 7 shows that the second web 300 has an extension in the cross-direction (CD) which is substantially equal to the combined extension of the first 200 and third 700 webs in the cross-direction (CD), plus the spacing between said first 200 and third webs 700 (i.e. the "crotch gap").

The material of the first 200 and third 700 webs may be selected from any material given for the first web 200, above. Similarly, the material of the second web 300 may be selected from any material given for the second web 300, above. It may be possible that the first 200 and third 700 webs originate from the same web which has been split into first 200 and third 700 webs.

The third web 700 is arranged to lie adjacent and substantially parallel with said first web 200, in a spaced arrangement with the first faces 201 , 701 of said webs 200, 700 facing the same direction, such that the first edges 203, 703 of respective first 200 and third 700 webs are adjacent. This can be achieved by arranging first 200 and third webs 700 in parallel prior to applying adhesive and/or elastic threads. In effect, first 200 and third 700 webs may be processed in parallel through the same apparatus. First 200 and third 700 webs may even originate from the same single web (not shown), which is split in the machine direction to provide parallel first and third webs 200, 700, Alternatively, first 200 and third 700 webs may be processed separately up to this point, and aligned in the appropriate manner just prior to the second web 300 being applied in the following steps.

In that first 200 and third 700 webs are arranged to lie adjacent and substantially parallel, they do not overlap when fixed to the second web 300. In effect, the second web 300 bridges the space between the first 200 and third 700 webs in the cross-direction (CD), thereby creating the elasticated web 140. The second web 300 may therefore be secured in the nip 400 between first 401 , second 402, third 403 and fourth 404 resilient belts (see Figure 8).

In a similar way to the first embodiment, a first adhesive 250 is applied to at least a portion of the first face 201 of said first web 200. Alternatively, the first adhesive 250 is applied to at least a portion of the first face 301 of the second web 300.

Likewise, a second adhesive 260 is applied to at least a portion of the first face 701 of said third web 700. Alternatively, the second adhesive 260 is applied to at least a portion of the first face 301 of the second web 300. Should first and second adhesives 250, 260 both be applied to the second web 300, they should suitably be applied in different areas thereof, in a non-overlapping manner. The first and second adhesive 250, 260 are preferably applied to the second web 300 adjacent to one another in the cross-direction CD. First 250 and second 260 adhesives may be selected from any of the adhesives given for the first adhesive 250, above, and may comprise the same adhesive. Application means for said adhesives 250, 260 may also be selected from any means described above.

At least one first elastic thread 500 is applied on at least the portion of said first face 201 of said first web 200 or on at least the portion of said first face 301 of said second web 300 which comprises said first adhesive 250. The nature and features of the first elastic thread 500 correspond to those of the elastic thread 500 given above in relation to the first embodiment. It may be possible that only one elastic thread 500 is applied to the first web 200, although more than one, e.g. 2, 3 or even 4 elastic threads 500 may be applied. In the case a plurality of elastic threads 500 is used, all elastic threads 500 should be applied substantially in parallel. The at least one first thread 500 is applied in a first pattern (P1), said first pattern (P1) oscillating in the cross-direction (CD) and extending in the machine direction (MD)

In the same way as for the first web 200, at least one second elastic thread 502 is applied on at least the portion of said first face 701 of said third web 700 or on at least the portion of said first face 301 of said second web 300 which comprises said second adhesive 260. The second elastic thread 502 may even be applied to the second web 300 before the nip (or in the nip). The at least one second elastic thread 502 is applied in a second pattern (P2), said second pattern (P2) oscillating in the cross-direction (CD) and extending in the machine direction (MD).

A portion of the first face 301 of the second web 300 is applied on the first face 201 of the first web 200, and the first 200 and second webs 300 are fixed together such that the at least one first elastic thread 500 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300, such that the first pattern (P1) extends over the first edge 203 of the first web 200 to form first loops 501 in said first elastic thread 500 which project in the cross-direction (CD) from said first edge 203 of said first web 200, see Figure 7. Figure 7 shows a wavy pattern (P1); however, the first pattern (P1 ) can take a variety of oscillating forms, and may comprise one or more straight (linear) sections, a zigzag form, a sinusoidal form or variations on such patterns.

Similarly a portion of the first face 301 of the second web 300 is applied on the first face 701 of the third web 700, and the third 700 and second webs 300 are fixed together such that the at least one second elastic thread 502 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 301 , 701 of respective second and third webs 300, 700 such that the second pattern (P2) extends over the first edge 703 of the third web 700 to form second loops 503 in said second elastic thread 502 which project in the cross-direction (CD) from said first edge 703 of said third web 700, see Figure 7. Figure 7 shows an essentially a wavy pattern (P2); however, the second pattern (P2) can take a variety of oscillating forms, and may comprise one or more straight (linear) sections, a zig-zag form, a sinusoidal form or variations on such patterns. The second pattern (P1 ) may take the same form as the first pattern (P1 ); however, it is preferred that the second pattern (P2) is different to the first pattern (P1 ).

The first and second patterns (P1 , P2) which the elastic threads 500, 502 make on the first 200 and third 700 webs are synchronised as shown in Figure 7. Synchronisation occurs such that the point in the machine direction (MD) at which the first elastic threads 500 are located furthest from the first edge 203 of the first web 200 corresponds substantially to the point in the machine direction (MD) at which the second elastic threads 502 are located furthest from the first edge 703 of the third web 700. In other words, the first and second patterns P1 , P2 have the same repeat frequency and meet and diverge repeatedly in the machine direction. The first loops 501 of said first elastic threads 500 are secured in first loop retaining means 410 located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200. First loop retaining means 410 can take any form as discussed above in relation to Figures 1-3. However, in Figure 7, first loop retaining means 410 comprises at least one first 401 and at least one second 402 resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200. The nature and features of the first 401 and second 402 resilient belts correspond to those given above for the first embodiment.

In a similar way to the first loops 501 , the second loops 503 are secured in second loop retaining means 411 located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200. Again, and independently of the first loop retaining means 410, second loop retaining means 41 1 can take any form as discussed above in relation to Figures 1-3. However, in Figure 7, second loop retaining means 41 1 takes the form of at least one third 403 and at least one fourth 404 resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge 703 of said third web 700. The nature and features of the third 403 and fourth 404 resilient belts correspond to those given above for the first embodiment. It is even possible that a single wide resilient belt comprises the third resilient belt 403 and the first resilient belt 401 , while a single wide resilient belt comprises the fourth resilient belt 404 and the second resilient belt 402. In other words, a pair of wide resilient belts are used instead of four separate resilient belts, to capture all loops 501 , 503. In this case, it is suitable that the wide resilient belts comprise have profiled arrangements at their cross-directional edges.

All the first elastic threads 500 are cut substantially at the point at which each first elastic thread 500 crosses the first edge 203 of said first web 200 such that the loops 501 become detached from the first web 200. Similarly, all the second elastic threads 502 are cut substantially at the point at which each second elastic thread 502 crosses the first edge 703 of said third web 700 such that the loops 503 become detached from the third web 700. Cutting of first 500 or second 502 elastic threads should be intermittent, so as not to completely remove the second web 300 from the nascent elasticated web 140. Details of the intermittent cutting step given above for the first embodiment are also relevant for this embodiment. An elasticated web 140 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 51 1 is thus provided.

Similarly to the method of the first embodiment, the steps of: - applying a first adhesive 250 to at least a portion of the first face 201 of said first web 200 or to at least a portion of the first face 301 of the second web 300;

- applying a second adhesive 260 to at least a portion of the first face 701 of said third web 700 or to at least a portion of the first face 301 of the second web 300; - applying at least one first elastic thread 500 on at least the portion of said first face 201 of said first web 200 or on at least the portion of said first face 301 of said second web 300 which comprises said first adhesive 250;

- applying at least one second elastic thread 502 on at least the portion of said first face 701 of said third web 700 or to at least the portion of said first face 301 of said second web 300 which comprises said second adhesive 260;

- applying a portion of the first face 301 of said second web 300 on the first face 201 of said first web 200, and fixing said first 200 and second webs 300 together such that said at least one first elastic thread 500 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300; such that the first pattern P1 extends over the first edge 203 of the first web 200 to form first loops 501 in said first elastic thread 500 which project in the cross-direction CD from said first edge 203 of said first web 200;

- applying a portion of the first face 301 of said second web 300 on the first face 701 of said third web 700, and fixing said third 700 and second webs 300 together such that said at least one second elastic thread 502 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 301 , 701 of respective second and third webs 300, 700; such that the second pattern (P2) extends over the first edge 703 of the third web 700 to form second loops 503 in said second elastic thread 502 which project in the cross-direction (CD) from said first edge 703 of said third web 700; and such that said first and second patterns (P1 , P2) are synchronised such that the point in the machine direction (MD) at which the first elastic threads (500) are located furthest from the first edge 203 of the first web (200) corresponds substantially to the point in the machine direction (MD) at which the second elastic threads 502 are located furthest from the first edge 703 of the third web 700; - securing the first loops 501 of said first elastic threads 500 in a first loop retaining means 410 located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200;

- securing the second loops 503 of said second elastic threads 502 in a second loop retaining means 411 located adjacent the first edge 703 of said third web 700; may occur substantially simultaneously in a single nip 400. After cutting the loops 501 , 503, an elasticated web 140 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 is provided. This elasticated web 140 may be rolled up and stored, or used directly to produce pant-type articles 20, or absorbent articles 10 of the open-diaper type. In that first and second loop retaining means 410, 411 (e.g. in the form of resilient 5 belts 401 , 402, 403, 404) are used to retain the elastic threads 500, 502 in the production of the elasticated web 140, waste pieces of elastic can be captured and controlled safely during the process. In addition, the tension in the discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 can be controlled, and cutting of the elastic threads 500, 502 can be performed accurately.

10

Figure 7A is an expanded cross-sectional view of the nascent elasticated web 140 along the line VIIA-VIIA in Figure 7, i.e. prior to cutting the continuous elastic threads 500, 502. It shows the first web 200, the second web 300 and the third web 700. Elastic threads 500 (which project in the cross-direction (CD) from the first edge 203 of said first web 200)

15 are secured between first 401 and second 402 resilient belts. Elastic threads 502 (which project in the cross-direction (CD) from the first edge 703 of the third web 700) are secured between third 403 and fourth 404 resilient belts. In that the second web 300 extends between the first web 200 and the third web 700, it too is secured between the resilient belts 401 , 402, 403, 404. In addition, Figure 7A shows the resilient belts 401 ,

20 402, 403, 404 having a particular profile which promotes a secure grip on the elastic threads.

Figure 7B is an expanded cross-sectional view of the elasticated web 140 along the line VIIB-VIIB in Figure 7; i.e. after cutting the elastic threads 500, 502. It shows the first web

25 200, the second web 300 and the discontinuous elastic threads 510 laminated between first 200 and second 300 webs. In a similar way, discontinuous elastic threads 51 1 are laminated between third 700 and second 300 webs. Figure 7B shows pairs of elastic threads 510, 51 1 ; however, it is also conceivable that a lesser or greater number of elastic threads 510, 511 are included. In particular, it is useful to have more elastic threads in the

30 portion of the elasticated web 140 which is to become the rear portion of a pant-type article 20, or an absorbent article 10.

The invention also provides an elasticated web 140 produced according to the methods described herein, as well as the elasticated web 140 per se. The elasticated web 140 is illustrated in Figure 7, and in cross-section in Figure 7B. The elasticated web 140 has discontinuous elastic threads 510, 51 1 , and comprises:

- a first web 200, said first web 200 having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first 201 and second 202 faces and a first edge 203 and a second edge 204, said first and second edges 203, 204 extending in the machine direction (MD);

- a second web 300, said second web 300 having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first 301 and second 302 faces and a first edge 303 and a second edge 304, said first and second edges 303, 304 extending in the machine direction (MD); and

- third web 700, said third web 700 having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first 701 and second 702 faces and a first edge 703 and a second edge 704, said first and second edges 703, 704 extending in the machine direction (MD).

A first adhesive 250 is arranged on at least a portion of the first face 201 of said first web 200 or on at least the portion of the first face 301 of said second web 300. At least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is arranged on at least the portion of said first face 201 of said first web 200 or on at least the portion of the first face 301 of said second web 300 which comprises said first adhesive 250.

A second adhesive 260 is arranged on at least a portion of the first face 701 of said third web 700 or on at least a portion of the first face 301 of said second web 300. At least one discontinuous elastic thread 51 1 is arranged on at least the portion of said first face 701 of said third web 700 or on at least the portion of the first face 301 of said second web 300 which comprises said second adhesive 260.

The third web 700 lies adjacent and substantially parallel with said first web 200, in a spaced arrangement with the first faces 201 , 701 of said webs 200, 700 facing the same direction, such that the first edges 203, 703 of respective first 200 and third 700 webs are adjacent.

The first face 301 of said second web 300 overlies the first face 201 of said first web 200; said first 200 and second webs 300 being fixed together such that said at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of said respective first and second webs 200, 300. The first face 301 of said second web 300 also overlies the first face 701 of said third web 700; said third 700 and second webs 300 being fixed together such that said at least one discontinuous elastic thread 511 is sandwiched between the first faces 701 , 301 of said respective third and second webs 700, 300.

The at least one discontinuous elastic thread 510 is present in a first pattern (R1). Pattern (R1) corresponds to the portion of pattern (P1), described above, which is located on the first web 200. The first pattern (R1) therefore forms loops 520 which extend from the first edge 203 of the first web 200 and back to said first edge 203 of the first web 200; so that the discontinuous elastic threads 510 terminate at each point at which they meet the first edge 203 of said first web 200.

Similarly, the at least one discontinuous thread 51 1 is present in a second pattern (R2), Pattern (R2) corresponds to the portion of pattern (P2), described above, which is located on the third web 700. The second pattern (R2) thus forms loops 521 which extend from the first edge 703 of the third web 700 and back to said first edge 703 of the third web 700; so that the discontinuous elastic threads 511 terminate at each point at which they meet the first edge 703 of said third web 700.

As shown in Figure 7, first and second patterns (R1 , R2) are synchronised such that the point in the machine direction (MD) at which the first discontinuous threads 510 are located furthest from the first edge 203 of the first web 200 corresponds substantially to the point in the machine direction (MD) at which the second discontinuous threads 51 1 are located furthest from the first edge 703 of the third web 700. In other words, the first and second patterns R1 , R2 have the same repeat frequency and diverge at essentially the same place in the machine direction.

The method according to the second embodiment (Figure 7) allows the elasticated web 140 to be formed. In particular, in that the elastic threads 500, 502 are secured between first and second loop retaining means 410, 411 (in particular, between resilient belts 401 , 402, 403, 404 as shown in Figure 7) elastic threads 500, 502 are in tension, which allows accurate cutting of the elastic threads 500, 502 to be carried out, which is not possible with the methods of the prior art. Accordingly, discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 can terminate at each point at which they meet the first edge 203 of said first web 200, or the first edge 703 of said third web 700, respectively. The invention also provides a method for manufacturing a pant-type article 20 from the elasticated web 140 of the second embodiment. The method for manufacturing pant-type articles 20 according to this second embodiment is illustrated in Figure 9.

Firstly, an elasticated web 140 is provided, according to the method of Figure 7. The elasticated web 140 has discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 in which at least one first discontinuous elastic thread 510 is sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300; and at least one second discontinuous elastic thread 51 1 is sandwiched between the first faces 701 , 301 of respective third and second webs 700, 300. The first and second discontinuous elastic threads 510, 51 1 are synchronised, as described above.

A leg region 122 of the elasticated web 140, defined substantially between discontinuous elastic threads 510, 51 1 of the first and third webs 200, 700, is cut out, so as to form leg openings 121. Cutting the elasticated web 140 to form leg openings 121 may take place before or after the step of folding the web 140, described below. Cutting the elasticated web 140 takes place in the same manner as described above for the first embodiment.

As shown in Figure 9, the elasticated web 140 is folded along a fold-line (F), so that first and second edges 143, 144 of the elasticated web 140 become arranged substantially adjacent one another and substantially parallel. Suitably, the elasticated web 140 is folded such that the second web 300 is located on the outside of the fold, as shown in Figure 9. However, the opposite situation is possible, as will become evident in the discussion of Figures 15 and 17, below.

The folded elasticated web 140 is then joined along lines (C). Lines (C) extend substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the first and second edges 143, 144 of the elasticated web 140 to the fold-line (F). The lines (C) are located substantially at the point at which the discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 are located furthest from the fold-line (F). Joining the folded elasticated web 140 in this manner will eventually form side-seams 131 in the finished pant-type article 20. Details of the joining to form side-seams 131 are provided in relation to the first embodiment. The elasticated web 140 is then cut along lines (C) such that the elasticated web (140) remains joined on either side of the cut. Individual pant-type articles (20) are thereby provided.

If the pant-type article 20 is to comprise an absorbent packet 130, an absorbent packet 130 is placed so as to overlie at least a portion of the first web 200, second web 300 and/or the third web 700. The absorbent packet 130 is then fixed to at least one of said first, second and/or third webs 200, 300, 700. The absorbent packets 130 are preferably placed on the elasticated web 140 on the face thereof which comprises the first 200 and third 700 webs. This will provide pant-type articles 20 according to Figure 16. Alternatively, the absorbent packets 130 are placed on the elasticated web 140 on the face thereof which comprises the second web 300. This will provide pant-type articles 20 according to Figure 17. Details of the absorbent packet 130 are to be found in relation to the first embodiment, above. Absorbent packets 130 are applied to the elasticated web 140 at any point before the web is folded.

Additional material layers may be added to the pant-type article 20 at any point during the above-described manufacturing process. For example, a topsheet comprising a nonwoven or nonwoven laminate may be added to the pant-type article 20 on the side which is intended to face the wearer's skin. A liquid-impermeable backsheet may be added to the pant-type article 20 on the side which is intended to face the wearer's garments.

The pant-type articles 20 of the invention may comprise additional components such as waist elastics 135, body elastics 137 and standing gathers 136. Suitable methods for applying such components will be known to the skilled person.

The invention also provides a method for manufacturing absorbent articles 10 in the form of open diapers from the elasticated web 140 of the second embodiment. This method is illustrated in Figure 10, and comprises the steps of; providing an elasticated web 140 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 in which at least one first discontinuous elastic thread 510 is sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300; and at least one second discontinuous elastic thread 511 is sandwiched between the first faces 701 , 301 of respective third and second webs 700, 300; placing an absorbent packet 130 so as to overlie at least a portion of the first web 200, second web 300 and/or the third web 700, and fixing said absorbent packet 130 to at least one of said first, second and/or third webs 200, 300, 700; cutting out a leg region 122 of the elasticated web 140 defined substantially between discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 of the first and third webs 200,

700, so as to form leg openings 121 ; providing fastening means 132 on said elasticated web 140; and cutting the elasticated web 140 along lines (C), said lines (C) extending substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the first edge 143 to the second edge 144 of the elasticated web 140, said lines (C) being located substantially at the point at which the discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 are located furthest from the first edges 203, 703 of the first 200 and third 700 webs.

Details of individual steps of this method are the same as those described in relation to Figure 9, above.

It is possible that the steps of placing the absorbent packets 130, cutting out leg openings 121 and cutting the elasticated web 140 along lines (C) can take place in any order. However, it is preferable that the step of cutting the elasticated web 140 along lines (C) takes place last in this series, so that the integrity of the elasticated web 140 is maintained while absorbent packets 130 are fixed to it, and leg openings 121 are cut out.

The invention also provides an apparatus 600 for manufacturing an elasticated web 100 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 according to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 7. The apparatus 600 is illustrated in Figure 8, and comprises: - first web supply means 601 , for supplying said first web 200; second web supply means 602, for supplying said second web 300; third web supply means 607, for supplying said third web 700; first elastic thread supply means 610 for supplying said at least one first elastic thread 500; second elastic thread supply means 61 1 for supplying said at least one second elastic thread 502; first adhesive supply means 612 for supplying said first adhesive 250; second adhesive supply means 613 for supplying said second adhesive 260; - and cutting means 605, 605' for cutting said first and second elastic threads

500, 502.

The first and second web supply means 601 , 602 are as described above for the apparatus of the first embodiment. The third web supply means 607 may also be as described above for the first and second web supply means 601 , 602. The first and third web supply means 601 , 607 are generally arranged such that first 200 and third 700 webs run in parallel, as shown in Figure 8.

The first adhesive supply means 612 is arranged so as to apply a first adhesive 250 to at least a portion of the first face 201 of said first web 200 or to at least a portion of the first face 301 of the second web 300. The first elastic thread supply means 610 is arranged so as to apply at least one first elastic thread 500 on at least the portion of said first face

201 of said first web 200 or on at least the portion of said first face 301 of said second web 300 which comprises said first adhesive 250. The at least one first elastic thread 500 is applied in a pattern (P), said pattern (P) oscillating in the cross-direction (CD) and extending in the machine direction (MD).

The second adhesive supply means 613 is arranged so as to apply a second adhesive 260 to at least a portion of the first face 701 of the third web 700 or to at least a portion of the first face 301 of the second web 300. The second elastic thread supply means 61 1 is arranged so as to apply at least one second elastic thread 502 on at least the portion of said first face 701 of said third web 700 or on at least the portion of said first face 301 of said second web 300 which comprises said second adhesive 260. The at least one second elastic thread 502 is applied in a pattern (P), said pattern (P) oscillating in the cross-direction (CD) and extending in the machine direction (MD).

Details of the first adhesive supply means 612 and the first elastic thread supply means 610 are given in relation to the apparatus of the first embodiment, above. The second adhesive supply means 613 and second elastic thread supply means 611 may constitute the same means as the first adhesive supply means 612 and the first elastic thread supply means 610, respectively.

The second web supply means 602 is arranged so as to apply the first face 301 of the 5 second web 300 on the first face 201 of the first web 200 and on the first face 701 of the third web 700, as shown in Figures 7 and 8. First 200 and second webs 300 are fixed together; and said third 700 and said second 300 webs are fixed together; such that said at least one first elastic thread 500 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300; and said at least one second elastic thread

10 502 is partly sandwiched between the first faces 701 , 301 of respective third and second webs 700, 300. Methods and means for fixing the webs 200, 300, 700 together are provided above in relation to the first embodiment. Notably, the first 250 and second 260 adhesives which are present on the first 200 and third 700 webs may be used to fix these webs to the second web 300.

15

The pattern (P1 ) is arranged such that it extends over the first edge 203 of the first web 200 to form first loops 501 in said first elastic threads 500 which project in the cross- direction CD from said first edge 203 of said first web 200. Similarly, pattern (P2) is arranged such that it extends over the first edge 703 of the third web 700 to form second

20 loops 503 in said second elastic threads 502 which project in the cross-direction (CD) from said first edge 703 of said third web 700.

As shown in Figure 7, first and second patterns (P1 , P2) are synchronised such that the point in the machine direction (MD) at which the first elastic threads 500 are located 25 furthest from the first edge 203 of the first web 200 corresponds substantially to the point in the machine direction (MD) at which the second elastic threads 502 are located furthest from the first edge 703 of the third web 700.

The cutting means 605, 605' is arranged so as to cut all the elastic threads 500, 502

30 substantially at the point at which each first elastic thread 500 crosses the first edge 203 of said first web 200 such that the first loops 501 become detached from the first web 200; and at the point at which each second elastic thread 502 crosses the first edge 703 of said third web 700; such that the second loops 503 become detached from the third web

700. Details of the intermittent cutting means 605, 605' are given above in relation to

35 Figure 7. The apparatus 600 comprises first loop retaining means 410 located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200 and which is adapted so as to secure the first loops 501 in said first loop retaining means 410. In addition, the apparatus 600 comprises second loop retaining means 411 located adjacent the first edge 703 of said third web 700 and which is adapted so as to secure the second loops 503 in said second loop retaining means 411. The first and second loop retaining means 410, 41 1 may be any loop retaining means described above in relation to Figures 1-3.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8, the first loop retaining means 410 comprises at least one first 401 and at least one second 402 resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge 203 of said first web 200; and which are adapted so as to secure the first loops 501 of the first elastic thread 500 in a nip 400 between said at least one first 401 and said at least one second 402 resilient belt. Similarly, the second loop retaining means 411 comprises at least one third 403 and at least one fourth 404 resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge 703 of said third web 700; and which are adapted so as to secure the second loops 503 of the second elastic thread 502 in a nip 400' between said at least one third 403 and said at least one fourth 404 resilient belt. Details of the first 401 , second 402, third 403 and fourth 404 resilient belts are the same as given for the first 401 and second 403 resilient belts, in relation to the first embodiment. In particular, a single wide resilient belt may comprise the third resilient belt 403 and the first resilient belt 401 , and a single wide resilient belt comprises the fourth resilient belt 404 and the second resilient belt 402.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8, first web 200, second web 300, third web 700, elastic threads 500, 502 and resilient belts 401 , 402, 403, 404 are brought together in a single nip 400, thereby fixing these components together in a convenient and effective manner.

As is also illustrated in Figure 8, first web supply means 601 , second web supply means 602, third web supply means 607, first elastic thread supply means 610, second elastic thread supply means 611 first adhesive supply means 612, second adhesive supply means 613, cutting means 605, 605', at least one first 401 , at least one second 402, at least one third 403 and at least one fourth 404 resilient belts are suitably arranged peripherally about a single central cylinder 620. However, other arrangements of these components are possible.

The apparatus 600 described above may comprise additional components, making it 5 suitable for manufacturing pant-type articles 20. In this case, the apparatus 600 is illustrated schematically in Figure 9, and additionally comprises; elasticated web supply means 621 ; for supply of said elasticated web 140; optionally, absorbent packet supply means 622, for supply of absorbent packets 130 10 - leg region cutting means 623, for cutting out leg regions 122 folding means 628 for folding the elasticated web 140 joining means 626 for joining the elasticated web 140. elasticated web cutting means 625, for cutting elasticated web 140

15 The elasticated web supply means 621 is arranged so as to provide an elasticated web 140 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 in which at least one first discontinuous elastic thread 510 is sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300; and at least one second discontinuous elastic thread 51 1 is sandwiched between the first faces 701 , 301 of respective third and second webs 700,

20 300. The elasticated web supply means 621 may feed elasticated web 140 directly from the apparatus illustrated in Figure 8; alternatively elasticated web 140 may be fed from another supply e.g. a roll. As for the first web supply means 601 described above, the elasticated web supply means 621 typically comprises a supply of elasticated web 140 (e.g. a roll) and means adapted for feeding said elasticated web 140 in a machine

25 direction. The elasticated web supply means 621 may comprise any suitable combination of cylinders, belts, rods or the like. The elasticated web supply means 621 may comprise means for controlling forces in the edges 143, 144 of the elasticated web 140, which may arise from the elastic threads 510, 511.

30 Absorbent packet supply means 622 is arranged so as to place an absorbent packet 130 such that it overlies at least a portion of the first web 200, second web 300 and/or the third web 700. The absorbent packet 130 is then fixed to at least one of said first, second and/or third webs 200, 300, 700. The absorbent packets 130 are placed on the elasticated web 140, preferably on the face thereof which comprises first 200 and third

35 700 webs. Details of the absorbent packet 130 are to be found in relation to the first embodiment, above. Absorbent packets 130 are applied to the elasticated web 140 at any point before the web is folded.

The leg region cutting means 623 is arranged so as to cut out a region of the elasticated web 140 defined substantially between discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 of the first and third webs 200, 700, so as to form leg openings 121. The skilled person will be able to select a suitable size, location and shape for the leg openings 121 in the elasticated web 140. Further details of the leg region cutting means 623 can be found in relation to the first embodiment, above.

Folding means 628 is arranged so as to fold the elasticated web 140 along a fold-line (F). The fold-line (F) runs in the machine direction of the elasticated web 140. First and second edges 143, 144 of the elasticated web 140 become arranged substantially adjacent one another and substantially parallel. The second web 300 is preferably located on the outside of the fold, but may even be located on the inside of the fold. Details of the folding means 628 and the folding process can be found in relation to the above embodiments.

The joining means 626 are arranged so as to join the folded elasticated web 140 along lines C. Lines C extend substantially in the cross direction CD from the first and second edges 143, 144 of the elasticated web 140 to the fold-line F, said lines C being located substantially at the point at which the discontinuous elastic threads 510, 511 are located furthest from the fold-line F. Joining along lines C will form side-seams 131 in the pant- type article. Details of the joining, and the joining means, to form side-seams 131 are provided in relation to the first embodiment.

Elasticated web cutting means 625 is arranged so as to cut the elasticated web 140 along lines (C) such that the elasticated web 140 remains joined on either side of the cut. In this way, individual pant-type articles 20 are separated from the elasticated web 140.

As described above in relation to the first embodiment, the pant-type articles 20 of the invention may comprise additional components such as waist elastics 135, body elastics 137 and standing gathers 136. Suitable methods and means for applying such components will be known to the skilled person. The invention also provides an apparatus for manufacturing an absorbent article 10 in the form of an open diaper from the elasticated web 140.

In this case, the apparatus 600 additionally comprises; - elasticated web supply means 621 ; for supply of said elasticated web 140; absorbent packet supply means 622, for supply of absorbent packets 130 leg region cutting means 623, for cutting out leg regions 122 elasticated web cutting means 625, for cutting elasticated web 140 and fastening supply means 627 for supply of fastening means 132.

Details of these components are the same as those described in relation to Figure 9, above.

As before, the elasticated web supply means 621 is arranged so as to provide an elasticated web 140 having discontinuous elastic threads 510, 51 1 in which at least one first discontinuous elastic thread 510 is sandwiched between the first faces 201 , 301 of respective first and second webs 200, 300; and at least one second discontinuous elastic thread 511 is sandwiched between the first faces 701 , 301 of respective third and second webs 700, 300.

The absorbent packet supply means 622 are arranged so as to place an absorbent packet 130 so as to overlie at least a portion of the first web 200, second web 300 and/or the third web 700, and to fix said absorbent packet 130 to at least one of said first, second and third webs 200, 300, 700.

The leg region cutting means 623 is arranged so as to cut out a region of the elasticated web 140 defined substantially between discontinuous elastic threads 510, 51 1 of the first and third webs 200, 700, so as to form leg openings 121. The elasticated web cutting means 625 is arranged so as to cut the elasticated web 140 along lines C, said lines (C) extending substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the first edge 143 to the second edge 144 of the elasticated web 140, said lines (C) being located substantially at the point at which the discontinuous elastic threads 510, 51 1 are located furthest from the first edges 203, 703 of the first 200 and third 700 webs. The fastening supply means 627 is arranged so as to provide fastening means 132 on said elasticated web 140. The fastening means 132 are suitably located on the outside face of the absorbent article 10. Details of the fastening means 132 are provided above in the description of the first embodiment.

As described above in relation to the first embodiment, the pant-type articles 20 of the invention may comprise additional components such as waist elastics 135, body elastics 137 and standing gathers 136. Suitable methods and means for applying such components will be known to the skilled person.

The invention also provides various pant-type articles 20 which are produced according to the methods described herein. Embodiments of the pant-type articles 20 are illustrated in Figures 11-17. Figures 11A-17A are expanded cross-sectional views through the perspective view of Figures 1 1-17 taken along the longitudinal centre line (A-A) in each case.

Each of the pant-type articles 20 illustrated in Figures 1 1-17, comprise a front panel 150 and a rear panel 160. The front panel is that portion of the article 10 which - when the article is in use - is intended to cover at least a portion of the groin and/or lower belly of the wearer. The rear panel is that portion of the article 20 which - when the article is in use - is intended to cover at least a portion of the buttocks and/or lower back of the wearer.

The illustrated pant-type articles 20 also comprise a crotch panel 181 which extends between the front panel 150 and the rear panel 160 in the longitudinal direction (L) of the pant-type article 20 and is joined to said front and rear panels 150, 160. The crotch panel 181 is that portion of the article 10 which - when the article is in use - lies substantially between the legs of the wearer.

The crotch panel 181 comprises a crotch layer 180 and/or an absorbent packet 130. The pant-type articles of Figures 10-15 therefore comprise various combinations of crotch layer 180 and absorbent packet 130. The crotch layer 180 is that layer of the article 10 which is formed from the fourth web 900 described above. The absorbent packet 130 is as described above, and generally comprises an absorbent core 133 covered by one or more cover layers 134. The pant-type article 20 of Figures 11 and 11A comprises a crotch layer 180, but no absorbent packet. The crotch layer 180 is separate from the front panel 150 and rear panel 160. It extends between the front panel 150 and the rear panel 160 in the longitudinal direction (L) of the pant-type article 20 and is joined to said front and rear panels 150, 160.

The pant-type article 20 of Figures 12 and 12A comprises an absorbent packet 130, but not a crotch layer. If no crotch layer 180 is present (i.e. the crotch panel 181 only comprises core packet 130), the core packet 130 must extend between said front panel 150 and said rear panel 160 and be joined thereto. In this case, it is especially suitable that the cover layer 134 of the absorbent core 133 which is to face the wearer's garment exhibits liquid-barrier properties.

The pant-type article 20 of Figures 13 and 13A comprises an absorbent packet 130 and a crotch layer 180. The crotch layer 180 extends between the front panel 150 and the rear panel 160 in the longitudinal direction (L) of the pant-type article 20 and is joined to the front and rear panels 150, 160. The absorbent packet 130 may extend between the front panel 150 and the rear panel 160 in the longitudinal direction (L) of the pant-type article 20 and be joined to said front and rear panels 150, 160, as illustrated. However, the absorbent packet 130 may only be joined to one of said front and rear panels 150, 160, or solely to the crotch layer 180, as desired. The presence of the crotch layer 180 in the pant-type article 20 of Figures 13-13A can add mechanical strength, favourable aesthetic properties and desirable liquid-barrier properties to the article.

The front and rear panels 150, 160 of the pant-type articles 20 of Figures 1 1-17 are joined to each other at side seams 131 located at the transverse edges thereof.

As shown in Figures 1 1-17, and most clearly in Figures 1 1A, 12A, 13A, 14A, 15A, 16A and 17A, at least the front panel 150 of each embodied pant-type article 20 comprises a first front layer 151 , a second front layer 152 and at least two first leg elastics 153 located between said first 151 and second 152 front layers. The first front layer 151 corresponds to the first web 200 used in the methods described above, and may therefore comprise any material suitable for the first web 200. The second front layer 152 corresponds to the second web 300 used in the methods described above, and may therefore comprise any material suitable for the second web 300. The at least two first leg elastics 153 are located symmetrically on either side of a longitudinal centre line (L1) of the pant-type article 20. The first leg elastics 153 are adapted to seal the leg openings 121 against the legs of the wearer. The first leg elastics 5 153 correspond to the discontinuous elastic threads 510 in the methods described above, and may therefore comprise any material suitable for such threads. The at least two first leg elastics 153 are located on either side of a longitudinal centre line (L1) of the pant-type article 20. 0 The first front layer 151 is defined by first 154 and second edges 155 which extend substantially in the transverse direction (T) of the pant-type article 20. These first 154 and second edges 155 of the first front layer 151 correspond to the first 203 and second 204 edges of the first web 200 used in the methods of the invention. The first edge 154 is that edge which is located closest to the crotch panel 181 of the pant-type article 20. 5

The rear panel 160 of the pant-type articles 20 of Figures 11-17 also comprises a first rear layer 161 , a second rear layer 162 and at least two second leg elastics 163 located between said first 161 and second 162 rear layers. The at least two second leg elastics 163 are located on either side of longitudinal centre line (L1 ) of the pant-type article 20.0

Figures 1 1-17 show pant-type articles 20 having pairs of elastic threads 153, 163; however, it is also conceivable that a lesser or greater number of elastic threads 153, 163 are included. In particular, it is useful to have more elastic threads 163 in the rear panel 160. 5

The first rear layer 161 is defined by first 164 and second edges 165 which extend substantially in the transverse direction (T) of the pant-type article 20. The first edge 164 is that which is located closest to the crotch panel 181 of the pant-type article 20. 0 Common to all pant-type articles 20 of Figures 11-17 is that the first leg elastics 153 in the front panel 150 terminate at the point at which they meet the first edge 154 of said first front layer 151 , and that the second leg elastics 163 in said rear panel 160 terminate at the point at which they meet the first edge 164 of said first rear layer 161. Typically, the leg elastics 153, 163 extend from the first edge 154, 164 of the first front or rear layer 151 , 161 towards the side seams 131 of the article 20. The leg elastics 153, 163 are typically curved.

Suitably, the leg elastics 153, 163 do not overlap the absorbent packet 130 at all. It is 5 therefore preferred that the at least two first leg elastics 153 and said at least two second leg elastics 163 are located on either side of the absorbent packet 130 of the pant-type article 20 in the transverse direction (T).

The pant-type articles of Figures 14-17 are similar to those of Figures 11-13, except that

10 they are made via the second method of the invention, in which first and third webs 200, 700 are laminated to a second web 300. In these cases, therefore, a single second layer 170 comprises the second front layer 152, the second rear layer 162 and the crotch layer 180. Figures 14 and 14A show a pant-type article 20 with a single second layer 170 which does not comprise an absorbent packet 130, and in which the single second layer

15 170 lies towards the outside of the product. Figures 15 and 15A show a pant-type article 20 with a single second layer 170 which does not comprise an absorbent packet 130, and in which the single second layer 170 lies towards the inside of the product. Whether articles of Figures 14 or Figure 15 are made depends on which way the elasticated web 140 is folded during manufacture.

20

Figures 16 and 16A show a pant-type article 20 with a single second layer 170, and which comprises an absorbent packet 130, in which the single second layer 170 lies towards the outside of the product. Figures 17 and 17A show a pant-type article 20 with a single second layer 170, and which comprises an absorbent packet 130, in which the single

25 second layer 170 lies towards the inside of the product. Whether articles of Figures 16 or Figure 17 are made depends on which way the absorbent packet 130 is applied to the elasticated web 140 during manufacture.

The pant-type articles 20 of the invention may comprise additional components such as 30 waist elastics 135, body elastics 137 and standing gathers 136.

Figures 18- 21 show absorbent articles 10 in the form of open diapers. Figures 18A-21A are cross-sectional views along the longitudinal centre lines (A-A) in Figures 18-21 , respectively. 35 The absorbent articles 10 illustrated in Figures 18, 19 and 18A, 19A are formed by the methods described in relation to Figure 6, and extend in the longitudinal (L) and transverse (T) directions, as shown.

Each of the absorbent articles 10 illustrated in Figures 18-19, comprises a front panel 150 and a rear panel 160 and an absorbent packet 130. Each article also comprises a crotch panel 181. The crotch panel 181 extends between the front panel 150 and the rear panel 160 in the longitudinal direction (L) of the absorbent article 10 and is joined to the front and rear panels 150, 160. The crotch panel 181 comprises an absorbent packet 130 and optionally, a crotch layer 180.

The absorbent article 10 of Figures 18 and 18A comprises both a crotch layer 180 and a core packet 130. The presence of the crotch layer 180 in the absorbent article 10 of Figures 18 and 18A can add mechanical strength, favourable aesthetic properties and desirable liquid-barrier properties to the article.

Suitably, at least the crotch layer 180 extends between said front panel 150 and said rear panel 160 in the longitudinal direction (L) of the absorbent article 10 and is joined to said front and rear panels 150, 160. The absorbent packet 130 may only be joined to one of said front and rear panels 150, 160, or solely to the crotch layer 180, as desired. However, if no crotch layer 180 is present, the core packet must extend between said front panel 150 and said rear panel 160 and be joined thereto.

The absorbent article 10 of Figures 19 and 19A does not comprise a crotch layer 180, but instead, the front and rear panels 150, 160 are bridged solely via the core packet 130. In this case, it is suitable that the cover layer 134 of the absorbent core 133 which is to face the wearer's garment exhibits liquid-barrier properties.

At least one of said front and rear panels 150, 160 comprise fastening means 132. Suitable fastening means 132, and means and methods for their application are discussed above.

At least the front panel 150 comprises a first front layer 151 , a second front layer 152 and at least two first leg elastics 153 located between said first 151 and second 152 front layers. The at least two first leg elastics 153 are located on either side of a longitudinal centre line L1 of the absorbent article 10.

The first front layer 151 is defined by first 154 and second edges 155 which extend substantially in the transverse direction T of the absorbent article 10. The first 154 edge is that which is located closest to the crotch panel 181 of the absorbent article 10.

The rear panel 160 also comprises a first rear layer 161 , a second rear layer 162 and at least two second leg elastics 163 located between said first 161 and second 162 rear layers. The at least two second leg elastics 163 are located on either side of longitudinal centre line L1 of the absorbent article 10.

Figures 18-21 show absorbent articles 10 having pairs of elastic threads 153, 163; however, it is also conceivable that a lesser or greater number of elastic threads 153, 163 are included. In particular, it is useful to have more elastic threads 163 in the rear panel 160.

The first rear layer 161 is defined by first 164 and second edges 165 which extend substantially in the transverse direction T of the absorbent article 10. The first 164 edge is that which is located closest to the crotch panel 181 of the absorbent article 10.

Suitable materials for the layers 151 , 152, 161 , 162, absorbent packet 130 and the elastics 153, 163 are provided above for the pant-type articles 20 of the invention.

As shown in Figures 18-21 , the first leg elastics 153 in the front panel 150 terminate at the point at which they meet the first edge 154 of said first front layer 151 while the second leg elastics 163 in the rear panel 160 terminate at the point at which they meet the first edge 164 of the first rear layer 161.

Suitably, the leg elastics 153, 163 do not overlap the absorbent packet 130 at all. It is therefore preferred that the at least two first leg elastics 153 and said at least two second leg elastics 163 are located on either side of the absorbent packet 130 of the absorbent article 10 in the transverse direction (T). The absorbent article 10 of Figures 20, 21 , 2OA and 21 A is similar to those of Figures 18- 19, except that it is made via the second method of the invention, in which first and third webs 200, 700 are laminated to a second web 300. In these cases, therefore, a single second layer 170 comprises the second front layer 152, the second rear layer 162 and the 5 crotch layer 180.

Figure 20 shows an absorbent article 10 in which the absorbent packet 130 is located on the first 200 and third 700 webs during manufacture. The second web 300 (=single second layer 170) therefore lies on the face of the absorbent article 10 opposite to the 10 absorbent packet 130. This arrangement provides the absorbent article 10 with a continuous outer face, comprised of the single second layer 170/second web 300.

Figure 21 shows an absorbent article 10 in which the absorbent packet 130 is located on the second web 300 during manufacture. The second web 300 (=single second layer 15 170) therefore lies on the same face of the absorbent article 10 as the absorbent packet 130.

Figure 2OA is an expanded cross-sectional view along the line XXA-XXA in Figure 20; i.e. through the absorbent article 10 along its length. Figure 21 A is an expanded cross- 20 sectional view along the line XXIA-XXIA in Figure 21 ; i.e. through the absorbent article 10 along its length.

The absorbent articles 10 of the invention may comprise additional components such as waist elastics 135, body elastics 137 and standing gathers 136.

25

The invention has been described with reference to a number of embodiments. However, the scope of the invention should not be considered as limited to the illustrated and described embodiments. Instead, features from certain embodiments may be combined at will with features from other embodiments, while remaining within the scope of the

30 claims. The scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing an elasticated web (100) having discontinuous elastic threads (510), said method comprising the steps of: a. providing a first web (200), said first web (200) having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD)₁ first (201 ) and second (202) faces and a first edge (203) and a second edge (204), said first and second edges (203, 204) extending in the machine direction (MD); b. providing a second web (300), said second web (300) also having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first (301) and second (302) faces and a first edge (303) and a second edge (304), said first and second edges (303, 304) extending in the machine direction (MD); c. applying a first adhesive (250) to at least a portion of the first face (201) of said first web (200) d. applying at least one elastic thread (500) on at least the portion of said first face (201 ) of said first web (200) which comprises said first adhesive (250); wherein said at least one thread (500) is applied in a pattern (P), said pattern (P) oscillating in the cross-direction (CD) and extending in the machine direction (MD), such that the pattern (P) extends over the first edge (203) of the first web (200) to form loops (501 ) in said elastic thread (500) which project in the cross-direction (CD) from said first edge (203) of said first web (200); e. securing the loops (501) in a loop retaining means (410) which is located adjacent the first edge (203) of said first web (200); f. applying the first face (301 ) of said second web (300) on the first face (201) of said first web (200), and fixing said first (200) and second webs (300) together such that said at least one elastic thread (500) is partly sandwiched between the first faces (201 , 301) of said respective first and second webs (200, 300); g. cutting the elastic thread (500) substantially at each point at which the elastic thread (500) crosses the first edge (203) of said first web (200) such that the loops (501 ) become detached from the first web (200); so as to thereby provide an elasticated web (100) having discontinuous elastic threads (510).

2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein steps d., e. and f. of the method occur substantially simultaneously in a single nip (400).

3. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the loop retaining means (410) comprises at least one first (401) and at least one second (402) resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge (203) of said first web (200).

4. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second web (300) is applied to the first web (200) such that the first edge (303) of the second web (300) is substantially aligned with the first edge (203) of the first web (200).

5. A method for manufacturing pant-type articles (20), said method comprising the steps of; a. carrying out the method according to any of claims 1-4, so to provide an elasticated web (100), said elasticated web (100) having first and second edges (103, 104) extending in the machine direction (MD); said elasticated web (100) also having discontinuous elastic threads (510), said discontinuous elastic threads (510) being sandwiched between the first faces (201 , 301) of respective first and second webs (200, 300) and extending to the first edge (103) of said elasticated web (100); b. arranging first and second such elasticated webs (100) adjacent one another and in a spaced relationship such that first edges (103) of each of said elasticated webs (100) are located closest to one another and aligned substantially parallel to one another; said first and second elasticated webs (100) being synchronised such that each discontinuous elastic thread (510) in the first elasticated web (100) is located opposite a corresponding discontinuous elastic thread (510) in the second elasticated web (100); c. placing a fourth web (900) and/or an absorbent packet (130) so as to overlie at least a portion of the first and/or second elasticated webs (100), and fixing at least one of said fourth web (900) and/or said absorbent packet (130) to both first and second elasticated webs (100); d. cutting out leg regions (122) of one or both elasticated webs (100) and - if present - said fourth web (900); each leg region (122) being defined substantially within said elasticated webs (100) by discontinuous elastic threads (510); e. folding the co-joined elasticated webs (100) along a fold-line (F), so that second edges (104) of each elasticated web (100) become arranged substantially adjacent one another and substantially parallel, with the fourth web (900) located on the outside of the fold and/or the absorbent packet (130) located on the inside of the fold; f. joining the first and second elasticated webs (100) to each other along lines (C), said lines (C) extending substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the second edges (104) of each elasticated web (100) to the fold-line (F), said lines (C) being located substantially at the point at which the at least one discontinuous elastic thread (510) is located furthest from the first edge (103) of each elasticated web (100); to form side-seams (131); g. cutting each elasticated web (100), and - if present - the fourth web (900), along lines (C) such that first and second elasticated webs (100) remain joined on either side of the cut, so as to provide pant-type articles (20).

6. A method for manufacturing absorbent articles (10), said method comprising the steps of; a. carrying out the method according to any of claims 1-4, so to provide an elasticated web (100), said elasticated web (100) having first and second edges (103, 104) extending in the machine direction (MD); said elasticated web (100) also having discontinuous elastic threads (510) in which discontinuous elastic threads (510) are sandwiched between the first faces (201 , 301) of respective first and second webs (200, 300) and extend to the first edge (103) of said elasticated web (100); b. arranging a first and a second such elasticated webs (100) adjacent one another and in a spaced relationship such that first edges (103) of each of said elasticated webs (100) are located closest to one another and aligned substantially parallel to one another; said first and second elasticated webs (100) being synchronised such that each discontinuous elastic thread (510) in the first elasticated web (100) is located opposite a corresponding discontinuous elastic thread (510) in the second elasticated web (100); c. placing an absorbent packet (130) so as to overlie at least a portion of the first and/or second elasticated webs (100); d. optionally, placing a fourth web (900) so as to overlie the first edges (103) of the first and second elasticated webs (100), and fixing at least one of said fourth web (900) and/or said absorbent packet (130) to both first and second elasticated webs (100); e. cutting out leg regions (122) of said fourth web (900) and optionally said first and/or second elasticated webs (100); each leg region (122) being defined substantially within said elasticated webs (100) by discontinuous elastic threads (510); f. cutting the co-joined elasticated webs (100) and - if present - the fourth web (900) along lines (C), said lines (C) extending substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the second edge (104) of one elasticated web (100) to the second edge (104) of the other elasticated web (100), said lines (C) being located substantially at the point at which the at least one discontinuous elastic thread (510) is located furthest from the first edge (103) of each elasticated web (100); g. providing fastening means (132) on at least one of said first and second elasticated webs (100); so as to provide absorbent articles (10).

7. A method for manufacturing an elasticated web (140) having discontinuous elastic threads (510, 51 1), said method comprising the steps of; a. providing a first web (200), said first web (200) having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first (201 ) and second (202) faces and a first edge (203) and a second edge (204), said first and second edges (203, 204) extending in the machine direction (MD); b. providing a second web (300), said second web (300) also having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first (301 ) and second (302) faces and a first edge (303) and a second edge (304), said first and second edges (303, 304) extending in the machine direction (MD); c. providing a third web (700) said third web (700) having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first (701) and second (702) faces and a first edge (703) and a second edge (704), said first and second edges (703,

704) extending in the machine direction (MD); d. arranging said third web (700) to lie adjacent and substantially parallel with said first web (200), in a spaced arrangement with the first faces (201 , 701 ) of said webs (200, 700) facing the same direction, such that the first edges (203, 703) of respective first (200) and third (700) webs are adjacent; e. applying a first adhesive (250) to at least a portion of the first face (201 ) of said first web (200) or to at least a portion of the first face (301) of the second web (300); f. applying a second adhesive (260) to at least a portion of the first face (701) of said third web (700) or to at least a portion of the first face (301) of the second web (300); g. applying at least one first elastic thread (500) on at least the portion of said first face (201) of said first web (200) or on at least the portion of said first face (301) of said second web (300) which comprises said first adhesive (250); wherein said at least one first thread (500) is applied in a first pattern (P1), said first pattern (P1 ) oscillating in the cross-direction (CD) and extending in the machine direction (MD), h. applying at least one second elastic thread (502) on at least the portion of said first face (701 ) of said third web (700) or to at least the portion of said first face (301 ) of said second web (300) which comprises said second adhesive (260); wherein said at least one second elastic thread (502) is applied in a second pattern (P2), said second pattern (P2) oscillating in the cross-direction (CD) and extending in the machine direction (MD), i. applying a portion of the first face (301) of said second web (300) on the first face (201 ) of said first web (200), and fixing said first (200) and second webs (300) together such that said at least one first elastic thread (500) is partly sandwiched between the first faces (201 , 301 ) of respective first and second webs (200, 300); such that the first pattern (P1 ) extends over the first edge (203) of the first web (200) to form first loops (501) in said first elastic thread (500) which project in the cross-direction (CD) from said first edge (203) of said first web (200); j. applying a portion of the first face (301) of said second web (300) on the first face (701 ) of said third web (700), and fixing said third (700) and second webs (300) together such that said at least one second elastic thread (502) is partly sandwiched between the first faces (301 , 701) of respective second and third webs (300, 700); such that the second pattern (P2) extends over the first edge (703) of the third web (700) to form second loops (503) in said second elastic thread (502) which project in the cross-direction (CD) from said first edge (703) of said third web (700); and such that said first and second patterns (P1 , P2) are synchronised such that the point in the machine direction (MD) at which the first elastic threads (500) are located furthest from the first edge (203) of the first web (200) corresponds substantially to the point in the machine direction (MD) at which the second elastic threads (502) are located furthest from the first edge (703) of the third web (700); k. securing the first loops (501 ) of said first elastic threads (500) in a first loop retaining means (410) located adjacent the first edge (203) of said first web (200);

I. securing the second loops (503) of said second elastic threads (502) in a second loop retaining means (411 ) located adjacent the first edge (703) of said third web (700); m. cutting all the first elastic threads (500) substantially at the point at which each first elastic thread (500) crosses the first edge (203) of said first web (200) such that the loops (501) become detached from the first web (200); n. cutting all the second elastic threads (502) substantially at the point at which each second elastic thread (502) crosses the first edge (703) of said third web (700) such that the loops (503) become detached from the third web (700); wherein step d. can take place at any point in the process before step i. so as to provide an elasticated web (140) having discontinuous elastic threads

(510, 511 ).

8. A method according to claim 7, wherein steps e. - I. of the method occur substantially simultaneously in a single nip (400).

9. A method according to any of claims 7 or 8, wherein the first loop retaining means (410) comprises at least one first (401) and at least one second (402) resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge (203) of said first web (200) and/or the second loop retaining means (41 1) comprises at least one third (403) and at least one fourth (404) resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge (703) of said third web (700).

10. A method according to claim 8, wherein a single wide resilient belt comprises the third resilient belt (403) and the first resilient belt (401), and a single wide resilient belt comprises the fourth resilient belt (404) and the second resilient belt (402).

1 1. A method for manufacturing pant-type articles (20), said method comprising the steps of: a. carrying out the method according to any of claims 7-10, so to provide an elasticated web (140) having discontinuous elastic threads (510, 51 1) in which at least one first discontinuous elastic thread (510) is sandwiched between the first faces (201 , 301) of respective first and second webs (200, 300); and at least one second discontinuous elastic thread (511) is sandwiched between the first faces (701 , 301) of respective third and second webs (700, 300); b. cutting out a leg region (122) of the elasticated web (140) defined substantially between discontinuous elastic threads (510, 511) of the first and third webs (200, 700) so as to form leg openings (121); c. folding the elasticated web (140) along a fold-line (F), so that first and second edges (143, 144) of the elasticated web (140) become arranged substantially adjacent one another and substantially parallel, d. joining the folded elasticated web (140) along lines (C), said lines (C) extending substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the first and second edges (143, 144) of the elasticated web (140) to the fold-line (F), said lines

(C) being located substantially at the point at which the discontinuous elastic threads (510, 511) are located furthest from the fold-line (F); to form side-seams (131); e. cutting the elasticated web (140) along lines (C) such that the elasticated web (140) remain joined on either side of the cut; wherein steps b. and c. can take place in any order, so as to thereby provide pant-type articles (20).

12 A method according to claim 11 , said method comprising the additional step of: placing an absorbent packet (130) so as to overlie at least a portion of the first web (200), the second web (300) and/or the third web (700), and fixing said absorbent packet (130) to at least one of said first, second and/or third webs (200, 300, 700); after step a., but before step c.

13. A method for manufacturing absorbent articles (10), said method comprising the steps of; a. carrying out the method according to any of claims 7-10, so to provide an elasticated web (140) having discontinuous elastic threads (510, 511) in which at least one first discontinuous elastic thread (510) is sandwiched between the first faces (201 , 301) of respective first and second webs (200, 300); and at least one second discontinuous elastic thread (511) is sandwiched between the first faces (701 , 301 ) of respective third and second webs (700, 300); b. placing an absorbent packet (130) so as to overlie at least a portion of the first web (200), the second web (300) and/or the third web (700), and fixing said absorbent packet (130) to at least one of said first, second and/or third webs (200, 300, 700); c. cutting out a region of the elasticated web (140) defined substantially between discontinuous elastic threads (510, 511) of the first and third webs

(200, 700), so as to form leg openings (121 ); d. providing fastening means (132) on said elasticated web (140); e. cutting the elasticated web (140) along lines (C) said lines (C) extending substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the first edge (143) to the second edge (144) of the elasticated web (140), said lines (C) being located substantially at the point at which the discontinuous elastic threads (510, 51 1) are located furthest from the first edges (203, 703) of the first (200) and third (700) webs; so as to provide absorbent articles (10).

14. An elasticated web (100) having discontinuous elastic threads, said elasticated web comprising: a. a first web (200), said first web (200) having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first (201) and second (202) faces and a first edge (203) and a second edge (204), said first and second edges (203, 204) extending in the machine direction (MD); b. a second web (300), said second web (300) also having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first (301) and second (302) faces and a first edge (303) and a second edge (304), said first and second edges (303, 304) extending in the machine direction (MD); c. a first adhesive (250) arranged on at least a portion of the first face (201) of said first web (200); d. at least one discontinuous elastic thread (510) arranged on at least the portion of said first face (201 ) of said first web (200) which comprises said first adhesive (250); e. wherein the first face (301 ) of said second web (300) overlies the first face (201 ) of said first web (200); said first (200) and second webs (300) being fixed together such that said at least one discontinuous elastic thread (510) is sandwiched between the first faces (201 , 301) of said respective first and second webs (200, 300); characterised in that said at least one discontinuous thread (510) is present in a pattern (R), said pattern (R) forming loops (520) which extend from the first edge (203) of the first web (200) and back to said first edge (203) of the first web

(200); so that the discontinuous elastic threads (510) terminate at each point at which they meet the first edge (203) of said first web (200).

15. An elasticated web (140) having discontinuous elastic threads (510, 511), said elasticated web (140) comprising: a. a first web (200), said first web (200) having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first (201 ) and second (202) faces and a first edge (203) and a second edge (204), said first and second edges (203, 204) extending in the machine direction (MD); b. a second web (300), said second web (300) having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first (301) and second (302) faces and a first edge (303) and a second edge (304), said first and second edges (303, 304) extending in the machine direction (MD); c. a third web (700), said third web (700) having a primary extension in the machine direction (MD), first (701 ) and second (702) faces and a first edge (703) and a second edge (704), said first and second edges (703, 704) extending in the machine direction (MD); d. a first adhesive (250) arranged on at least a portion of the first face (201) of said first web (200); or on at least a portion of the first face (301) of the second web (300); e. at least one discontinuous elastic thread (510) arranged on at least the portion of said first face (201) of said first web (200) or on at least the portion of the first face (301 ) of said second web (300) which comprises said first adhesive (250); f. a second adhesive (260) arranged on at least a portion of the first face

(701 ) of said third web (700); or on at least a portion of the first face (301 ) of the second web (300); g. at least one discontinuous elastic thread (511) arranged on at least the portion of said first face (701 ) of said third web (700) or on at least the portion of the first face (301 ) of said second web (300) which comprises said second adhesive (260); h. said third web (700) lying adjacent and substantially parallel with said first web (200), in a spaced arrangement with the first faces (201 , 701) of said webs (200, 700) facing the same direction, such that the first edges (203, 703) of respective first (200) and third (700) webs are adjacent; i. wherein the first face (301 ) of said second web (300) overlies the first face (201 ) of said first web (200); said first (200) and second webs (300) being fixed together such that said at least one discontinuous elastic thread (510) is sandwiched between the first faces (201 , 301 ) of said respective first and second webs (200, 300); j. and wherein the first face (301 ) of said second web (300) also overlies the first face (701) of said third web (700); said third (700) and second webs (300) being fixed together such that said at least one discontinuous elastic thread (511 ) is sandwiched between the first faces (701 , 301) of said respective third and second webs (700, 300); characterised in that said at least one discontinuous elastic thread (510) is present in a first pattern (R1), said first pattern (R1 ) forming loops (520) which extend from the first edge (203) of the first web (200) and back to said first edge (203) of the first web (200); so that the discontinuous elastic threads (510) terminate at each point at which they meet the first edge (203) of said first web (200) and that said at least one discontinuous thread (511) is present in a second pattern (R2), said second pattern (R2) forming loops (521) which extend from the first edge (703) of the third web (700) and back to said third edge

(703) of the third web (700); so that the discontinuous elastic threads (511) terminate at each point at which they meet the first edge (703) of said third web (700).

16. A pant-type article (20), comprising: a front panel (150), a rear panel (160); a crotch panel (181 ), said crotch panel (181) extending between said front panel (150) and said rear panel (160) in the longitudinal direction (L) of the pant-type article (20) and being joined to said front and rear panels (150, 160); wherein said crotch panel (181 ) comprises a crotch layer (180), and/or an absorbent packet (130); said front and rear panels (150, 160) being joined at side seams (131 ) at the transverse edges thereof - at least said front panel (150) comprising a first front layer (151), a second front layer (152) and at least two first leg elastics (153) located between said first (151 ) and second (152) front layers; wherein said at least two first leg elastics (153) are located on either side of a longitudinal centre line (L1 ) of the pant-type article (20); - wherein said first front layer (151 ) is defined by first (154) and second edges

(155) which extend substantially in the transverse direction (T) of the pant- type article (20); said first (154) edge being that which is located closest to the crotch panel (181) of the pant-type article (20), said rear panel (160) also comprising a first rear layer (161 ), a second rear layer (162) and at least two second leg elastics (163) located between said first (161 ) and second (162) rear layers; wherein said at least two second leg elastics (163) are located on either side of longitudinal centre line (L1 ) of the pant-type article (20); and said first rear layer (161) being defined by first (164) and second edges (165) which extend substantially in the transverse direction (T) of the pant- type article (20); said first (164) edge being that which is located closest to the crotch panel (181 ) of the pant-type article (20), characterized in that the first leg elastics (153) in said front panel (150) terminate at the point at which they meet the first edge (154) of said first front layer (151); and that the second leg elastics (163) in said rear panel (160) terminate at the point at which they meet the first edge (164) of said first rear layer (161).

17. A pant-type article (20) according to claim 16, wherein said at least two first leg elastics (153) and said at least two second leg elastics (163) are located on either side of the absorbent packet (130) of the pant-type article (20) in the transverse direction (T).

18. A pant-type article (20) according to any of claims 16-17, wherein a single second layer (170) comprises the second front layer (152), the second rear layer (162) and the crotch layer (180).

19. An absorbent article (10), comprising: a front panel (150), - a rear panel (160); a crotch panel (181), said crotch panel (181) extending between said front panel (150) and said rear panel (160) in the longitudinal direction (L) of the absorbent article (10) and being joined to said front and rear panels (150,

160); wherein said crotch panel (181) comprises an absorbent packet (130), and optionally, a crotch layer (180); - at least one of said front and rear panels (150, 160) comprising fastening means (132); at least said front panel (150) comprising a first front layer (151 ), a second front layer (152) and at least two first leg elastics (153) located between said first (151) and second (152) front layers; wherein said at least two first leg elastics (153) are located on either side of a longitudinal centre line (L1 ) of the absorbent article (10); wherein said first front layer (151) is defined by first (154) and second edges (155) which extend substantially in the transverse direction (T) of the absorbent article (10); said first (154) edge being that which is located closest to the crotch panel (181 ) of the absorbent article (10), said rear panel (160) also comprising a first rear layer (161), a second rear layer (162) and at least two second leg elastics (163) located between said first (161 ) and second (162) rear layers; wherein said at least two second leg elastics (163) are located on either side of longitudinal centre line (L1 ) of the absorbent article (10); and said first rear layer (161 ) being defined by first (164) and second edges

(165) which extend substantially in the transverse direction (T) of the absorbent article (10); said first (164) edge being that which is located closest to the crotch panel (181 ) of the absorbent article (10), characterized in that the first leg elastics (153) in said front panel (150) terminate at the point at which they meet the first edge (154) of said first front layer (151 ) and that the second leg elastics (163) in said rear panel (160) terminate at the point at which they meet the first edge (164) of said first rear layer (161 ).

20. An absorbent article (10) according to claim 19, wherein said at least two first leg elastics (153) and said at least two second leg elastics (163) are located on either side of the absorbent packet (130) of the absorbent article (10) in the transverse direction (T).

21. An absorbent article (10) according to any of claims 19-20, wherein a single second layer (170) comprises the second front layer (152), the second rear layer (162) and the crotch layer (180).

22. An apparatus (600) for carrying out the method according to any of claims 1-4, said apparatus comprising: first web supply means (601 ), for supplying said first web (200); - second web supply means (602), for supplying said second web (300); elastic thread supply means (603) for supplying said at least one elastic thread (500); adhesive supply means (604) for supplying said first adhesive (250); elastic cutting means (605) for cutting said at least one elastic thread (500) wherein - said adhesive supply means (604) is arranged so as to apply a first adhesive (250) to at least a portion of the first face (201 ) of said first web (200);

- said elastic thread supply means (603) is arranged so as to apply at least one elastic thread (500) on at least the portion of said first face (201 ) of said first web (200) which comprises said first adhesive (250); wherein said at least one thread

(500) is applied in a pattern (P), said pattern (P) oscillating in the cross-direction (CD) and extending in the machine direction (MD), such that the pattern (P) extends over the first edge (203) of the first web (200) to form loops (501 ) in said elastic threads (500) which project in the cross-direction (CD) from said first edge (203) of said first web (200);

- said second web supply means (602) is arranged so as to apply the first face (301 ) of said second web (300) on the first face (201 ) of said first web (200), and fix said first (200) and second webs (300) together such that said at least one elastic thread (500) is partly sandwiched between the first faces (201 , 301 ) of respective first and second webs (200, 300);

- said elastic cutting means (605) arranged so as to cut all the elastic threads (500) substantially at the point at which each elastic thread (500) crosses the first edge (203) of said first web (200) such that the loops (501 ) become detached from the first web (200); characterised in that the apparatus (600) additionally comprises loop retaining means (410) located adjacent the first edge (203) of said first web (200) and which is adapted so as to secure the loops (501 ) in said loop retaining means (410).

23. The apparatus (600) according to claim 22, in which said first (200) and second webs (300) are fixed together in a single nip (400).

24. The apparatus (600) according to any of claims 22-23, wherein said loop retaining means (410) comprises at least one first (401 ) and at least one second (402) resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge (203) of said first web (200); and which are adapted so as to secure the loops (501 ) in a nip (400) between said at least one first (401 ) and said at least one second (402) resilient belt.

25. The apparatus (600) according to any of claims 22-24, wherein - first web supply means (601 ); second web supply means (602); elastic thread supply means (603) for supplying at least one elastic thread (500); adhesive supply means (604); - cutting means (605); and loop retaining means (410) are arranged peripherally about a single central cylinder (620).

26. An apparatus (600) according to any of claims 22-25, for carrying out the method of claim 5, said apparatus (600) additionally comprising; elasticated web supply means (606); for supply of first and second elasticated web (100) fourth web supply means (616), for supply of fourth web (900) and/or absorbent packet supply means (618), for supply of absorbent packets (130) - leg region cutting means (608), for cutting out leg regions (122) folding means (617) for folding the co-joined elasticated webs (100) joining means (614) for joining the first and second elasticated webs (100) elasticated web cutting means (609), for cutting elasticated webs (100) and - if present - the fourth web (900), wherein: a. said elasticated web supply means (606) is arranged so as to provide first and second elasticated webs (100) adjacent one another and in a spaced relationship such that the first edges (103) of each of said elasticated webs (100) are located closest to one another and aligned substantially parallel to one another; said first and second elasticated webs (100) being synchronised such that each discontinuous elastic thread (510) in the first elasticated web (100) is located opposite a corresponding discontinuous elastic thread (510) in the second elasticated web (100); b. said fourth web supply means (616), for supply of fourth web (900) being arranged so as to place a fourth web (900) so as to overlie the first edges

(103) of the first and second elasticated webs (100), and to fix said fourth web (900) to both first and second elasticated webs (100); c. said absorbent packet supply means (618) being arranged so as to place an absorbent packet (130) so as to overlie at least a portion of the first or second elasticated webs (100), and to fix said absorbent packet (130) to at least one of said first and second elasticated webs (100); such that at least one of said fourth web (900) and/or said absorbent packet (130) is fixed to both first and second elasticated webs (100); d. said leg region cutting means (608) being arranged so as to cut out a leg region (122) of one or both elasticated webs (100) and - if present - said fourth web (900); each leg region (122) being defined substantially by discontinuous elastic threads (510) so as to form leg openings (111 ); e. said folding means (617) being arranged so as to fold the co-joined elasticated webs (100) along a fold-line (F), so that second edges (104) of each elasticated web (100) become arranged substantially adjacent one another and substantially parallel, with the fourth web (900) located on the outside of the fold and/or the absorbent packet (130) located on the inside of the fold; f. said joining means (614) being arranged so as to join the first and second elasticated webs (100) to each other along lines (C), said lines (C) extending substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the second edges (104) of each elasticated web (100) to the fold-line (F), said lines (C) being located substantially at the point at which the at least one discontinuous elastic thread (510) is located furthest from the first edge (103) of each elasticated web (100); to form side-seams (131); g. said elasticated web cutting means (609) being arranged so as to cut each elasticated web (100) and - if present - the fourth web (900), along lines (C) such that first and second elasticated webs (100) remain joined on either side of the cut.

27. An apparatus (600) according to any of claims 22-25, for carrying out the method of claim 6, said apparatus (600) additionally comprising; elasticated web supply means (606); for supply of first and second elasticated web (100) - absorbent packet supply means (618), for supply of absorbent packets (130) optionally, fourth web supply means (616), for supply of fourth web (900) leg region cutting means (608), for cutting out leg regions (122) elasticated web cutting means (609), for cutting elasticated webs (100) and - if present - the fourth web (900), - fastening supply means (615), for supply of fastening means (132), wherein: a. said elasticated web supply means (606) is arranged so as to provide first and second elasticated webs (100) adjacent one another and in a spaced relationship such that the first edges (103) of each of said elasticated webs (100) are located closest to one another and aligned substantially parallel to one another; said first and second elasticated webs (100) being synchronised such that each discontinuous elastic thread (510) in the first elasticated web (100) is located opposite a corresponding discontinuous elastic thread (510) in the second elasticated web (100); b. said absorbent packet supply means (618) being arranged so as to place an absorbent packet (130) so as to overlie at least a portion of the first or second elasticated webs (100); c. said fourth web supply means (616), for supply of fourth web (900) being arranged so as to place a fourth web (900) so as to overlie the first edges (103) of the first and second elasticated webs (100), and fixing at least one of said fourth web (900) and/or said absorbent packet (130) to both first and second elasticated webs (100); d. said leg region cutting means (608) being arranged so as to cut out a leg region (122) of one or both elasticated webs (100) and - if present - said fourth web (900); each leg region (122) being defined substantially by discontinuous elastic threads (510) so as to form leg openings (1 1 1 ); e. said elasticated web cutting means (609) arranged to cut the co-joined elasticated webs (100) and - if present - the fourth web (900) along lines (C), said lines (C) extending substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the second edge (104) of one elasticated web (100) to the second edge

(104) of the other elasticated web (100), said lines (C) being located substantially at the point at which the at least one discontinuous elastic thread (510) is located furthest from the first edge (103) of each elasticated web (100); f. said fastening supply means (615), arranged so as to provide fastening means (132) on at least one of said first and second elasticated webs (100).

28. An apparatus (600) for carrying out the methods according to any of claims 7-10, said apparatus (600) comprising: first web supply means (601), for supplying said first web (200); second web supply means (602), for supplying said second web (300); third web supply means (607), for supplying said third web (700); first elastic thread supply means (610) for supplying said at least one first elastic thread (500); second elastic thread supply means (611) for supplying said at least one second elastic thread (502); first adhesive supply means (612) for supplying said first adhesive (250); second adhesive supply means (613) for supplying said second adhesive (260); cutting means (605, 605') for cutting said first and second elastic threads (500, 502); wherein

- said first adhesive supply means (612) is arranged so as to apply a first adhesive (250) to at least a portion of the first face (201) of said first web (200) or to at least a portion of the first face (301 ) of the second web (300);;

- said first elastic thread supply means (610) is arranged so as to apply at least one first elastic thread (500) on at least the portion of said first face (201 ) of said first web (200) or on at least the portion of said first face (301 ) of said second web (300) which comprises said first adhesive (250); wherein said at least one first elastic thread (500) is applied in a first pattern (P1), said first pattern (P1) oscillating in the cross-direction (CD) and extending in the machine direction (MD),

- said second adhesive supply means (613) is arranged so as to apply a second adhesive (260) to at least a portion of the first face (701) of the third web (700) or to at least a portion of the first face (301) of the second web (300);

- said second elastic thread supply means (61 1) is arranged so as to apply at least one second elastic thread (502) on at least the portion of said first face (701 ) of said third web (700) or on at least the portion of said first face (301 ) of said second web (300) which comprises said second adhesive (260); wherein said at least one second elastic thread (502) is applied in a second pattern (P2), said second pattern (P2) oscillating in the cross-direction (CD) and extending in the machine direction (IVlD),

- said second web supply means (602) is arranged so as to apply the first face (301) of said second web (300) on the first face (201) of said first web (200) and the first face (701) of said third web (700), and fix said first (200) and second webs (300) together; and said third (700) and said second (300) webs together; such that said at least one first elastic thread (500) is partly sandwiched between the first faces (201 , 301) of respective first and second webs (200, 300); and said at least one second elastic thread (502) is partly sandwiched between the first faces (701 , 301 ) of respective third and second webs (700, 300); and such that the first pattern (P1 ) extends over the first edge (203) of the first web (200) to form first loops (501 ) in said first elastic threads (500) which project in the cross-direction (CD) from said first edge (203) of said first web (200); and such that the second pattern (P2) extends over the first edge (703) of the third web (700) to form second loops (503) in said second elastic threads (502) which project in the cross-direction (CD) from said first edge (703) of said third web (700); and such that said first and second patterns (P1 , P2) are synchronised such that the point in the machine direction (MD) at which the first elastic threads (500) are located furthest from the first edge (203) of the first web (200) corresponds substantially to the point in the machine direction (MD) at which the second elastic threads (502) are located furthest from the first edge (703) of the third web (700); - said cutting means (605, 605') arranged so as to cut all the elastic threads (500, 502) substantially at the point at which each first elastic thread (500) crosses the first edge (203) of said first web (200) such that the first loops (501 ) become detached from the first web (200); and at the point at which each second elastic thread (502) crosses the first edge (701) of said third web (700); such that the second loops (503) become detached from the third web (700); characterised in that the apparatus (600) comprises first loop retaining means (410) located adjacent the first edge (203) of said first web (200) and which is adapted so as to secure the first loops (501 ) in said first loop retaining means (410) and second loop retaining means (41 1 ) located adjacent the first edge (703) of said third web (700) and which is adapted so as to secure the second loops (503) in said second loop retaining means (41 1 ).

29. Apparatus (600) according to claim 28, in which said first (200), second (300) and third (700) webs are fixed together in a single nip (400, 400').

30. Apparatus (600) according to any of claims 28-29, wherein said first loop retaining means (410) comprises at least one first (401) and at least one second (402) resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge (203) of said first web (200); and which are adapted so as to secure the first loops (501 ) of the first elastic thread (500) in a nip (400) between said at least one first (401) and said at least one second (402) resilient belt and/or said second loop retaining means (41 1 ) comprises at least one third (403) and at least one fourth (404) resilient belt which are located adjacent the first edge (703) of said third web (700); and which are adapted so as to secure the second loops (503) of the second elastic thread (502) in a nip (400') between said at least one third (403) and said at least one fourth

(404) resilient belt.

31. An apparatus (600) according to claim 30, wherein a single wide resilient belt comprises the third resilient belt (403) and the first resilient belt (401), and a single wide resilient belt comprises the fourth resilient belt (404) and the second resilient belt (402).

32. Apparatus (600) according to any of claims 30-31 , wherein first web supply means (601 ), for supplying said first web (200); - second web supply means (602), for supplying said second web (300); third web supply means (607), for supplying said third web (700); first elastic thread supply means (610) for supplying said at least one first elastic thread (500); second elastic thread supply means (61 1 ) for supplying said at least one second elastic thread (502); first adhesive supply means (612) for supplying said first adhesive (250); second adhesive supply means (613) for supplying said second adhesive

(260); cutting means (605, 605') for cutting said first and second elastic threads (500, 502); first (410) and second (41 1 ) loop retaining means; are arranged peripherally about a single central cylinder (620).

33. An apparatus (600) according to any of claims 28-32, for carrying out the method of claims 1 1 -12, said apparatus (600) additionally comprising; elasticated web supply means (621 ); for supply of said elasticated web (140); optionally, absorbent packet supply means (622), for supply of absorbent packets (130) - leg region cutting means (623), for cutting out leg regions (122) folding means (628) for folding the elasticated web (140) joining means (626) for joining the elasticated web (140). elasticated web cutting means (625), for cutting elasticated web (140) wherein: a. said elasticated web supply means (621 ) is arranged so as to provide an elasticated web (140) having discontinuous elastic threads (510, 511) in which at least one first discontinuous elastic thread (510) is sandwiched between the first faces (201 , 301 ) of respective first and second webs (200, 300); and at least one second discontinuous elastic thread (511) is sandwiched between the first faces (701 , 301 ) of respective third and second webs (700, 300); b. said absorbent packet supply means (622) being arranged so as to place an absorbent packet (130) so as to overlie at least a portion of the first web (200), the second web (300) and/or the third web (700), and to fix said absorbent packet (130) to at least one of said first, second and third webs

(200, 300, 700); c. said leg region cutting means (623) being arranged so as to cut out a region of the elasticated web (140) defined substantially between discontinuous elastic threads (510, 51 1 ) of the first and third webs (200, 700), so as to form leg openings (121 ); d. said folding means (628) arranged so as to fold the elasticated web (140) along a fold-line (F), so that first and second edges (143, 144) of the elasticated web (140) become arranged substantially adjacent one another and substantially parallel, e. said joining means (626) arranged so as to join the folded elasticated web

(140) along lines (C), said lines (C) extending substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the first and second edges (143, 144) of the elasticated web (140) to the fold-line (F), said lines (C) being located substantially at the point at which the discontinuous elastic threads (510, 51 1 ) are located furthest from the fold-line (F); to form side-seams (131); f. said elasticated web cutting means (625) being arranged so as to cut the elasticated web (140) along lines (C) such that the elasticated web (140) remain joined on either side of the cut.

34. An apparatus (600) according to any of claims 28-32, for carrying out the method of claim 13, said apparatus (600) additionally comprising; elasticated web supply means (621); for supply of said elasticated web (140); absorbent packet supply means (622), for supply of absorbent packets (130) - leg region cutting means (623), for cutting out leg regions (624) elasticated web cutting means (625), for cutting elasticated web (140) fastening supply means (627) for supply of fastening means (132) wherein: a. said elasticated web supply means (621) is arranged so as to provide an elasticated web (140) having discontinuous elastic threads (510, 511) in which at least one first discontinuous elastic thread (510) is sandwiched between the first faces (201 , 301 ) of respective first and second webs (200, 300); and at least one second discontinuous elastic thread (51 1) is sandwiched between the first faces (701 , 301 ) of respective third and second webs (700, 300); b. said absorbent packet supply means (622) being arranged so as to place an absorbent packet (130) ) so as to overlie at least a portion of the first web (200), the second web (300) and/or the third web (700), and to fix said absorbent packet (130) to at least one of said first, second and third webs (200, 300, 700); c. said leg region cutting means (623) being arranged so as to cut out a region of the elasticated web (140) defined substantially between discontinuous elastic threads (510, 511 ) of the first and third webs (200, 700), so as to form leg openings (121); d. said fastening supply means (627) arranged so as to provide fastening means (132) on said elasticated web (140) e. said elasticated web cutting means (625) being arranged so as to cut the elasticated web (140) along lines (C) said lines (C) extending substantially in the cross direction (CD) from the first edge (143) to the second edge (144) of the elasticated web (140), said lines (C) being located substantially at the point at which the discontinuous elastic threads (510, 511) are located furthest from the first edges (203, 703) of the first (200) and third (700) webs.