WO2019005842A1

WO2019005842A1 - Absorbent article with adjustable leg openings and/or secondary waist adjustment features

Info

Publication number: WO2019005842A1
Application number: PCT/US2018/039568
Authority: WO
Inventors: Charles F. SCHROER; Harry J. Chmielewski
Original assignee: Attends Healthcare Products, Inc.
Priority date: 2017-06-26
Filing date: 2018-06-26
Publication date: 2019-01-03

Abstract

Disposable absorbent articles, such as adult incontinence briefs and protective underwear, with leg openings and/or waist openings that are adjustable.

Description

DESCRIPTION

ABSORBENT ARTICLE WITH ADJUSTABLE LEG OPENINGS AND/OR

SECONDARY WAIST ADJUSTMENT FEATURES

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/524,950, filed June 26, 2017, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/567,431, filed October 3, 2017, the contents of which applications are incorporated herein in their entirety.

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to absorbent products such as adult incontinence briefs, protective underwear, and infant diapers; and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to such products with leg openings that are adjustable to improve fit and/or reduce leakage around the leg, and optionally having a secondary waist adjustment feature to improve fit and/or reduce leakage around the waist.

BACKGROUND [0003] Examples of disposable absorbent articles that are wearable by a user include baby diapers, training pants, youth pants, swim pants, and adult incontinence briefs and underwear, all of which may be made in disposable forms. "Disposable" refers to articles that are designed to be discarded after a limited use rather than being laundered or otherwise restored for reuse. Disposable absorbent products have met with widespread acceptance in the marketplace for a variety of applications, including infant and adult incontinence care, in view of the manner in which such products can provide effective and convenient liquid absorption and retention while maintaining the comfort of the wearer. Such disposable absorbent articles often include a topsheet that is configured to be closest to the wearer during use, a liquid-impermeable backsheet or outer cover, and an absorbent core between the topsheet and the backsheet. In some instances, such disposable absorbent articles also include an acquisition-distribution layer (ADL) disposed between the topsheet and the absorbent core. Elasticated standing leg cuffs and leg gathers are also often used in such articles to provide improved fit and reduced leakage around a wearer's legs, relative to articles without such cuffs or gathers. [0004] U.S. Patent No. 9,398,986 discloses certain prior art examples of training pants, and U.S. Patents No. 6,976,978 and No. 4,940,464 disclose certain prior art examples of disposable incontinence garments or training pants.

[0005] One example of such a disposable absorbent article is shown in FIGS. 1A-1B, which depict a lower plan view and a perspective view, respectively, of training pant 10. Pant 10 includes a chassis 14 having a front waist portion 18, an opposing rear waist portion 22, and a crotch portion 26 extending longitudinally between front and rear waist portions 18, 22. Chassis 14 further includes an outer surface 30 configured to face away from a wearer during use of the pant, and an opposing body facing surface 34 configured to face a wearer during use of the pant.

[0006] As shown in FIGS. 1A-1B, pant 10 further includes a pair of front elastic side panels 38 and a pair of rear elastic side panels 42 configured to couple rear waist portion 22 to front waist portion 18 in a well-known configuration in which a left side 46 of the chassis defines a first leg opening 50 for a wearer's left leg, and in which a right side 54 of the chassis defines a second leg opening 58 for the wearer's right leg. In the depicted configuration, each of side panels 38, 42 includes a connection portion 62 configured to be coupled to a connection portion 62 of another of side panels 38, 42. Specifically, connection portion 62 of the left one of front side panels 38 is configure to be coupled to connection portion 62 of the left one of rear side panels 42, and connection portion 62 of the right one of front side panels 38 is configure to be coupled to connection portion 62 of the right one of rear side panels 42, such that the waist portions 18, 22 and side panels, 38, 42 cooperate to define a waist opening 66 as shown in FIG. IB. Connection portions 62 of the respective side panels can be permanently coupled together to define a tear-able side seam 70, such as, for example, via adhesive, ultrasonic, or thermal bonds. Such tear-able side seams generally cannot be refastened, and thereby render an article unusable once opened. Alternatively, connection portions 62 of the respective side panels can be removably coupled to define a refastenable or adjustable side seam, such as, for example, via hook-and-loop fasteners. Hook and loop fasteners are mechanical fasteners that include hooks, such as in a hook fastener portion, that are configured to engage loops in a loop fastener portion or in fibers of a sheet of fabric; for example, a nonwoven or woven fabric with fibers that define open or loop-like regions into which the hooks can extend and engage. Examples of such hook and loop fasteners may be referred to as VELCRO. [0007] As is known in the art, pant 10 can include one or more elastic elements coupled to the chassis such that the one or more elastic elements resist expansion of a circumference of the first leg opening and resist expansion of a circumference of the second leg opening. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, the depicted embodiment of the chassis (14) includes a first elastic region 74 along right side 46, and a second elastic region 78 along left side 54. In some configurations, elastic regions 74, 78 can each be defined by one or more elastic strands, which may be referred to in the art as "leg elastics," coupled to the chassis, for example laminated between the topsheet or an additional leg cuff layer and the backsheet. In other configurations, elastic regions 74, 78 can each be defined by an elastic film coupled to the chassis, for example laminated between the topsheet and the backsheet. In configurations in which elastic regions 74, 78 are defined by elastic film, the regions can be defined by separate pieces of elastic film or by separate regions of a single piece of elastic film. As shown in FIG. 1A, elastic regions 74, 78 may be parallel to and/or extend along a majority of a length of each of sides 46 and 54, provided that the elastic regions are configured to provide a biasing force that resists expansion of the leg openings when the chassis is in its closed configuration and tends to contract the leg opening around a wearer's leg, as shown in FIG. IB. Contraction of the leg opening to conform to the wearer's leg is desired for good containment of urine and feces in an absorbent product.

[0008] Another example of such a disposable absorbent article is shown in FIGs. 2A and 2B, which depict lower plan views of a baby diaper 100. Diaper 100 includes a chassis 104 having a front waist portion 108, an opposing rear waist portion 112, and a crotch portion 116 extending longitudinally between front and rear waist portions 108, 112. Chassis 104 further includes an outer surface 128 configured to face away from a wearer during use of the diaper, and an opposing body facing surface 132 configured to face a wearer during use of the diaper. In the view of FIG. 2A, a dashed leader extends from the body facing surface to reference numeral 132 because body facing surface 132 is opposite outer surface 128 and therefore not visible in the view of FIG. 2A.

[0009] As shown in FIG. 2A, diaper 100 further includes a pair of closure members 136 configured to couple rear waist portion 112 to front waist portion 108 in a well-known configuration in which a left side 140 of the chassis defines a first leg opening for a wearer's left leg, and in which a right side 144 of the chassis defines a second leg opening for the wearer's right leg, similar in some respects to what is shown in FIG. IB for training pant 10. In the depicted configuration, the closure members include a pair of back ears or back ear panels 148 each having a first end 152 bonded to rear waist portion 112 of chassis 104, and a second end 156 shown extending away from rear waist portion 112. "Bonded" refers to the joining, adhering, connecting, attaching, or the like, of two elements via adhesive(s), ultrasonic bond(s), and/or thermal bond(s). Two elements will be considered to be bonded together when they are bonded directly to one another or indirectly to one another, such as when each is directly bonded to intermediate elements.

[0010] Each closure member 136 further includes a fastener tab 160 with a first end 164 bonded to back ear 148, a second end 168 shown extending laterally outward from back ear 148, and a fastener portion 172 coupled to the fastener tab. Back ears 148 are each formed of a stretchable elastic material, such as a nonwoven laminate, that permits adjustments in the width and tension of back ears 148 to vary the form and fit of diaper 100 when worn by a user.

[0011] Fastener tabs 160 are formed of an inelastic nonwoven material and carry fastener portions 172. Fastener portions 172 include strips of hook material configured to interact with a corresponding loop material in the well-known hook-and-loop fastener arrangement. Connection of closure members 136 to front waist portion 108 is facilitated by a landing zone 176 configured to be engaged by fastener portions 172. In this embodiment, landing zone 176 is defined by an anchoring member that includes a strip of loop material bonded to front waist portion 108 of chassis 104, for example, to the backsheet, and configured to be engaged by the hook material of fastener portions 172.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 2A, diaper 100 also includes a pair of front ears 180 extending from opposite sides 140, 144 of chassis 104 with each of front ears 180 each having a first end 184 bonded to front waist portion 108 of chassis 104, and a second end 188 shown extending away from a respective side of front waist portion 108. Front ears 180 are each formed of a relatively soft nonwoven material and are each configured to be overlapped by the corresponding fastener tab 160 and/or back ear 148 to prevent the edges of fastener tab 160 from pinching, rubbing, or otherwise irritating a user's skin in use when fastening portions 172 are engaged with landing zone 176 to couple rear waist portion 112 to front waist portion 108. In some embodiments, front ears 180 include loop fastener portions or a fabric that is configured to be engaged by hook fastener portions such that fastener portions 172a can engage front ears 180. [0013] Some prior art baby diapers having a configuration similar to that shown in FIG. 2A are provided with a loop fastener material on the back of side of fastener tabs 160, opposite the side of fastener tabs 160 that carry hook fastener portions 172. Such diapers are configured to permit hook fastener portion 172 of one fastener tab 160 to engage the loop material on the back side of the other fastener tab 160 when the fastener tabs 160 overlap one another. In such prior art diapers, however, the hook fastener portion 160 on fastener tab 172 may permit the fastener tabs to rotate relative to one another when the diaper is worn, and thereby permit the front and/or rear waist portions to sag.

[0014] Outer surface 128 is defined by a liquid-impermeable backsheet or cover 192 that defines outer surface 128, and a liquid-permeable topsheet 196 that defines body facing surface 132 and is configured to be closest to the wearer during use. "Liquid impermeable," when used in describing a layer or multi-layer laminate, means that a liquid, such as urine, will not pass through the layer or laminate, under ordinary use conditions, in a direction generally perpendicular to the plane of the layer or laminate at the point of liquid contact. "Lamination" is the technique of manufacturing a material in multiple layers, so that the composite material has benefits of all the combined layers, such as, for example, improved mechanical strength or durability, improved stability, lower permeability to water, and/or other properties. A laminate includes two or more layers of material(s) that are permanently assembled by heat, pressure, ultrasonic welding, or adhesives. [0015] As shown in FIG. 2B, the depicted embodiment include an absorbent core 200 disposed between topsheet 196 and backsheet 192. An "absorbent core" is a structure typically disposed between a topsheet and backsheet of an absorbent article and containing materials like SAP and/or cellulosic fibers that are configured to absorb liquid in the absorbent article. [0016] As shown in FIG. 2B, diaper 100 also includes an acquisition-distribution layer (ADL) 204 disposed between the topsheet and the absorbent core. "Layer" when used in the singular can be a single element or a plurality of elements. For example, a plurality of sheets may together define a single layer, such as, for example, a layer with a particular function to which the sheets of the layer contribute. [0017] As is known in the art, diaper 100 can include one or more elastic elements coupled to the chassis such that the one or more elastic elements resist expansion of a circumference of the first leg opening and resist expansion of a circumference of the second leg opening. For example, as shown in FIG. 2B, the depicted configuration of the chassis (104) includes a first elastic region 208 along first side 140, and a second elastic region 208 along second side 140. In some configurations, elastic regions 208 can each be defined by one or more elastic strands, which may be referred to in the art as "leg elastics," coupled to the chassis, for example laminated between the topsheet (or an additional leg cuff layer) and the backsheet. In other configurations, elastic regions 208 can each be defined by an elastic film coupled to the chassis, for example laminated between the topsheet (or an additional leg cuff layer) and the backsheet. In configurations in which elastic regions 208 are defined by elastic film, the regions can be defined by separate pieces of elastic film or by separate regions of a single piece of elastic film. As shown in FIG. 2B, elastic regions 208 may be parallel to and/or extend along a majority of a length of each of sides 140 and 144, provided that the elastic regions are configured to provide a biasing force that resists expansion of the leg openings when the chassis is in its closed configuration.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 2A, chassis 104 has an overall relaxed length 212. [0019] Diaper 100 of FIGs. 2A and 2B is typically packaged and sold in a folded, and unfastened configuration in which chassis 104 is folded in half such that rear waist portion 108 overlaps front waist portion 104, but fastener portions 172 do not engage landing zone 176.

[0020] The absorbent articles depicted in FIGS. 1A-1B and 2A-2B, when worn by a user with thighs that are relatively small relative to the user's waist, may suffer from leaks around the leg openings. For example, such articles and their leg openings are necessarily sized for most expected users, and certain users may have legs that are smaller than the smallest dimension or circumference to which the leg openings can be constricted by leg elastics, for example elastic regions 74 and/or 208. For such users, the waist and/or leg openings may be loose, allowing for poor gasketing around the waist and/or leg. For example, a gap may be left between the user's waist and the waist opening of the absorbent article, and/or a gap may be left between the user's legs and the leg openings of the absorbent article.

[0021] Certain attempts have been made to address certain of these types of leakage. Examples of absorbent articles with adjustable leg openings are disclosed in: (1) U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0187156; (2) U.S. Patent No. 4,630,320; and (3) U.S. Patent No. 6,572,596. SUMMARY

[0022] This disclosure includes embodiments of disposable absorbent articles, assemblies including disposable absorbent articles, and methods of making disposable absorbent articles, for example, adult incontinence briefs and protective underwear with leg openings that are adjustable for improved fit around a wearer's legs.

[0023] Some embodiments of the present disposable absorbent articles comprise: a chassis having opposing front and rear waist portions, a crotch portion extending longitudinally between the front and rear waist portions, where a first end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a first end of the rear waist portion and a second end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a second end of the rear waist portion to define a closed configuration in which the front and rear waist portions cooperate to encircle and define a waist opening, a left side of the chassis defines a first leg opening, and a right side of the chassis defines a second leg opening; a first adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the first adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a portion of the left side of the chassis that defines the first leg opening; and a second adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the second adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a portion of the right side of the chassis that defines the second leg opening.

[0024] Some embodiments of the present disposable absorbent articles further comprise: one or more elastic elements coupled to the chassis such that the one or more elastic elements resist expansion of at least a portion of a circumference of the first leg opening and resist expansion of at least a portion of a circumference of the second leg opening; where the position at which the second end of the first adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a portion of the left side of the chassis that defines the first leg opening, and the position at which the second end of the second adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a portion of the right side of the chassis that defines the second leg opening. [0025] Some embodiments of the present disposable absorbent articles further comprise: a third adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the third adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a second portion of the left side of the chassis that defines the first leg opening; and a fourth adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the fourth adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a second portion of the right side of the chassis that defines the second leg opening. Some such embodiments further comprise: one or more elastic elements coupled to the chassis such that the one or more elastic elements resist expansion of at least a portion of a circumference of the first leg opening and resist expansion of at least a portion of a circumference of the second leg opening; where the position at which the second end of the first adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a portion of the left side of the chassis that defines the first leg opening, the position at which the second end of the second adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a portion of the right side of the chassis that defines the second leg opening, that the position at which the second end of the third adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a second portion of the left side of the chassis that defines the first leg opening; and the position at which the second end of the fourth adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a second portion of the right side of the chassis that defines the second leg opening. In some embodiments, the third adjustment strap is spaced apart from the first adjustment strap, and the fourth adjustment strap is spaced apart from the second adjustment strap.

[0026] In some embodiments of the present disposable absorbent articles, the second end of each of the adjustment straps includes a hook material configured to releasably engage a material of the chassis. In some embodiments, the first end of each of the adjustment straps is bonded to the chassis. In some such embodiments, at least a portion of each of the adjustment straps is stretchable. In some embodiments, the first end each of each of the adjustment straps is releasably coupled to the chassis.

[0027] Some embodiments of the present disposable absorbent articles further comprise: a third adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the third adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a first portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening. [0028] Some embodiments of the present disposable absorbent articles further comprise: two closure members each having a first end bonded to the rear waist portion of the chassis, and a second end configured to overlap and be releasably coupled to the front waist portion to define the closed configuration. In some such embodiments, each of the closure members comprises an elastic panel and a fastener portion coupled to the second end of the closure member, the fastener portion configured to be releasably coupled to the front waist portion. Some such embodiments further comprise: a third adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the third adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a first portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening; and a fourth adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the fourth adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a second portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening. In some embodiments, the second ends the third and fourth adjustment straps are configured to be releasably coupled to the elastic panel of a respective one of the closure members.

[0029] In some embodiments of the present disposable absorbent articles, the fastener portion comprises a hook material. In some embodiments, the elastic panel of each closure member has a first end defining the first end of the closure member, and a second end, and each closure member further comprises: a fastener tab having a first end bonded to the elastic panel, and a second end defining a second end of the closure member.

[0030] In some embodiments of the present disposable absorbent articles, the chassis defines one or more first pleats along the first leg opening and one or more second pleats along the second leg opening, each of the first and second pleats spaced apart from the uppermost portion of the respective leg opening when the chassis is in its closed configuration; and where each of the first and second pleats is defined by a portions of the chassis releasably bonded together and configured to be separated to increase a length of a portion of the side of the chassis that defines the respective leg opening.

[0031] In some embodiments of the present disposable absorbent articles, the front waist portion, rear waist portion, and crotch portion are defined by corresponding regions of a common chassis member. In some embodiments, the chassis comprises a topsheet, a backsheet bonded to the topsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet. [0032] Some embodiments of the present disposable absorbent articles comprise: a chassis having opposing front and rear waist portions, a crotch portion extending longitudinally between the front and rear waist portions, where a first end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a first end of the rear waist portion and a second end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a second end of the rear waist portion to define a closed configuration in which the front and rear waist portions cooperate to encircle and define a waist opening, a left side of the chassis defines a first leg opening, and a right side of the chassis defines a second leg opening; where the chassis defines one or more first pleats along the first leg opening and one or more second pleats along the second leg opening, each of the first and second pleats spaced apart from the uppermost portion of the respective leg opening when the chassis is in its closed configuration; and where each of the first and second pleats are defined by a portions of the chassis releasably bonded together and configured to be separated to increase a length of a portion of the side of the chassis that defines the respective leg opening. Some embodiments further comprise: one or more elastic elements coupled to the chassis such that the one or more elastic elements resist expansion of at least a portion of a circumference of the first leg opening and resist expansion of at least a portion of a circumference of the second leg opening; where each of the first and second pleats is defined by a portions of the chassis releasably bonded together and configured to be separated to increase a relaxed length of a portion of the side of the chassis that defines the respective leg opening. In some embodiments, the chassis defines a plurality of the first pleats and a plurality of the second pleats. In some embodiments, the portions of the chassis that are releasably bonded together to define each pleat are ultrasonically bonded together. In some embodiments, the chassis defines one or more third pleats along the waist opening, and each of the third pleats are defined by portions of the chassis releasably bonded together and configured to be separated to increase a length of a portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening.

[0033] Some embodiments of the present disposable absorbent articles comprise: a chassis having opposing front and rear waist portions, a crotch portion extending longitudinally between the front and rear waist portions, where a first end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a first end of the rear waist portion and a second end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a second end of the rear waist portion to define a closed configuration in which the front and rear waist portions cooperate to encircle and define a waist opening, a left side of the chassis defines a first leg opening, and a right side of the chassis defines a second leg opening; two closure members each having a first end bonded to the rear waist portion of the chassis, and a second end configured to overlap and be releasably coupled to the front waist portion to define the closed configuration, each of the closure members comprises an elastic panel and a fastener portion coupled to the second end of the closure member, the fastener portion configured to be releasably coupled to the front waist portion; a first adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the rear waist portion and a second end releasably couplable to the elastic panel of a first one of the closure members such that the position at which the second end of the first adjustment strap is coupled to the elastic panel of the first closure member can be adjusted to reduce a length of a first portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening; and a second adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably couplable to the elastic panel of a second one of the closure members such that the position at which the second end of the second adjustment strap is coupled to the elastic panel of the second closure member can be adjusted to reduce a length of a second portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening. Some embodiments further comprise: one or more elastic elements coupled to the chassis such that the one or more elastic elements resist expansion of at least a portion of a circumference of the waist opening; where the position at which the second ends of the first and second adjustment straps are coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening. In some embodiments, the second end of each of the adjustment straps includes a hook material configured to releasably engage a material of the chassis. In some embodiments, the first end of each of the adjustment straps is bonded to the chassis. In some embodiments, at least a portion of each of the adjustment straps is stretchable.

[0034] Some embodiments of the present disposable absorbent articles comprise: a chassis having opposing front and rear waist portions, a crotch portion extending longitudinally between the front and rear waist portions, where a first end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a first end of the rear waist portion and a second end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a second end of the rear waist portion to define a closed configuration in which the front and rear waist portions cooperate to encircle and define a waist opening, a left side of the chassis defines a first leg opening, and a right side of the chassis defines a second leg opening; where the chassis defines one or more first pleats along the waist opening; and where each of the first pleats are defined by a portions of the chassis releasably bonded together and configured to be separated to increase a length of a portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening.

[0035] The term "coupled" is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically; two items that are "coupled" may be unitary with each other. The terms "a" and "an" are defined as one or more unless this disclosure explicitly requires otherwise. The term "substantially" is defined as largely but not necessarily wholly what is specified (and includes what is specified; e.g., substantially 90 degrees includes 90 degrees and substantially parallel includes parallel), as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. In any disclosed embodiment, the term "substantially" may be substituted with "within [a percentage] of what is specified, where the percentage includes 0.1, 1, 5, and 10 percent.

[0036] The terms "comprise" and any form thereof such as "comprises" and "comprising," "have" and any form thereof such as "has" and "having," and "include" and any form thereof such as "includes" and "including" are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, an apparatus that "comprises," "has," or "includes" one or more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only those elements. Likewise, a method that "comprises," "has," or "includes" one or more steps possesses those one or more steps, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more steps.

[0037] Any embodiment of any of the apparatuses, systems, and methods can consist of or consist essentially of - rather than comprise/include/have - any of the described steps, elements, and/or features. Thus, in any of the claims, the term "consisting of or "consisting essentially of can be substituted for any of the open-ended linking verbs recited above, in order to change the scope of a given claim from what it would otherwise be using the open- ended linking verb.

[0038] Further, a device or system that is configured in a certain way is configured in at least that way, but it can also be configured in other ways than those specifically described.

[0039] The feature or features of one embodiment may be applied to other embodiments, even though not described or illustrated, unless expressly prohibited by this disclosure or the nature of the embodiments.

[0040] Some details associated with the embodiments described above and others are described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The following drawings illustrate by way of example and not limitation. For the sake of brevity and clarity, every feature of a given structure is not always labeled in every figure in which that structure appears. Identical reference numbers do not necessarily indicate an identical structure. Rather, the same reference number may be used to indicate a similar feature or a feature with similar functionality, as may non-identical reference numbers. Views in the figures are drawn to scale, unless otherwise noted, meaning the sizes of the depicted elements are accurate relative to each other for at least the embodiment in the view. [0042] FIG. 1A depicts a bottom plan view of a prior art disposable absorbent article, specifically a training pant, in an open configuration.

[0043] FIG. IB depicts a perspective view of the training pant of FIG. 1A in a closed configuration.

[0044] FIG. 2A depicts a bottom plan view of a prior art disposable absorbent article, specifically a baby diaper, in an open configuration.

[0045] FIG. 2B depicts a bottom plan view of the diaper of FIG. 2A, in an open configuration, showing certain internal components of the brief.

[0046] FIG. 3 depicts a bottom plan view of a first embodiment of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically training pant, in an open configuration. [0047] FIGS. 4A and 4B depict side and top views, respectively, of an enlarged portion of the brief of FIGS. 3 showing an adjustment strap of the training pant.

[0048] FIG. 5 depicts a bottom plan view of a second embodiment of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically a baby diaper, in an open configuration.

[0049] FIGS. 6A and 6B depict perspective views of an enlarged portion of the diaper of FIG. 5 with an adjustment strap shown in disconnected and tightened configurations, respectively.

[0050] FIG. 7 depicts a bottom plan view of a third embodiment of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically a baby diaper, in an open configuration.

[0051] FIGs. 8A and 8B depict the brief of FIG. 7 with pleats of the diaper in closed and open configurations, respectively. [0052] FIG. 9 depicts a bottom plan view of a fourth embodiment of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically a baby diaper, in an open configuration.

[0053] FIG. 10 depicts a bottom plan view of a fifth embodiment of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically baby diaper, in an open configuration. [0054] FIG. 11 depicts a bottom plan view of a sixth embodiment of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically an adult incontinence brief, in an open configuration.

[0055] FIG. 12 depicts a bottom plan view of a seventh embodiment of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically an adult incontinence brief, in an open configuration.

[0056] FIG. 13 depicts a bottom plan view of a eighth embodiment of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically an adult protective underwear, in an open configuration.

[0057] FIG. 14 depicts a bottom plan view of a ninth embodiment of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically an adult protective underwear, in an open configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0058] Referring now to FIG. 3 and FIGS. 4A-4B; FIG. 3 depicts a bottom plan view of a first embodiment 100a of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically a baby diaper, in an open configuration; and FIGS. 4A and 4B depict side and top views, respectively, of a portion diaper 100a including an adjustment strap. Diaper 100a is substantially similar in many respects to diaper 100 and, therefore, the differences will primarily be described here. For brevity and clarity, many of the reference numerals for features that are similar in diaper 100a to those in diaper 100 are therefore omitted in FIGs. 3 and 4A-4B, but such features should be understood to be similar to those in diaper 100 for at least the depicted embodiment of diaper 100a. The primary difference in diaper 100a relative to diaper 100 is that diaper 100a includes adjustment straps 300a, 300b. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, diaper 100a comprises a first adjustment strap 300a coupled along or adjacent, for example parallel, to first side 140; and a second adjustment strap 300b along or adjacent, for example parallel, to second side 144. In the embodiment shown, adjustment straps 300a, 300b are inelastic; in other embodiments, adjustment straps 300a, 300b can be stretchable. [0059] In the depicted configuration, each adjustment strap 300a, 300b has a first end 304 coupled to the chassis and a second end 308 releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which second end 308 is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a portion of the left side of the chassis that defines the respective leg opening. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, when second end 308a of first adjustment strap 300a is decoupled from the depicted position and re-coupled to the chassis at position 312a, a portion of first side 140 of the chassis is bunched or gathered between first end 304a and position 312a such that the relaxed length of the chassis between the point at which first end 304a is coupled to the chassis and position 312a is effectively shortened, by distance 316a, to be equal to a length 320a of the first attachment strap. A width of each strap is typically between 50% and 150% of the width of the corresponding elasticized region 208. Similarly, when second end 308b of second adjustment strap 300b is decoupled from the depicted position and re-coupled to the chassis at position 312b, a portion of second side 144 of the chassis is bunched or gathered between first end 304b and position 312b such that the relaxed length of the chassis between the point at which first end 304b is coupled to the chassis and position 312b is effectively shortened by distance 316b to be equal to a length 320b of the second attachment strap. In some embodiments, diaper 100a may not include elasticated standing side gathers, and/or the present adjustment straps can be used on other articles that do not include side gathers. [0060] By way of example, FIGS. 4A and 4B depict a portion 324 of first side 140 of the chassis that has been bunched or gathered between first and second ends 308a, 308b of attachment strap 300a, such that the relaxed length of the chassis between the point at which first end 304a is coupled to the chassis and position 312a is effectively shortened by distance 316a to be equal to the length of attachment strap 300a. As shown in FIG. 3, in this embodiment, distance 316a can be adjusted to reduce the circumference of the respective leg opening when the product is worn in a closed configuration. The adjustment helps to maintain sufficient tension in the leg elastics around the respective leg to support a close fit around that improves containment of urine and feces. Because elastic tensions are fixed when manufactured, the adjustment strap allows for additional tension to be applied, as needed. Ideally, however, the distance 316a is not so large as to impart tension high enough to generate red marks or indentation of the skin that can lead to wearer discomfort. In the embodiment shown, length 320a is equal to any one of, or between any two of: 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, and/or 40% of the relaxed length of leg elastics 208, or of overall relaxed length 212 of chassis 104. While one example of orientations for adjustment straps 300a, 300b is shown; other embodiments or variations may orient the adjustment straps in other ways. For example, second end 308a may be releasably coupled to the chassis at a point between first end 304a and the front waist section. Other embodiments can include one or more adjustment straps with both ends configured to be releasably coupled to the chassis, for example, via hook fastener material on each end of the adjustment strap.

[0061] For purposes of this disclosure, the dimensions of an elastic element, such as an elastic region 74 or 208 or a portion thereof, is measured with the elastic element flat against a planar surface and in a relaxed configuration in which the web of material is in its longest unstretched configuration, i.e., is not elastically deformed. Each elastic region 208, or portion thereof, is therefore measured in an extended but relaxed configuration in which the closure member has been elongated enough to remove any noticeable slack, but has not been elongated so much that the elastic region or portion of the elastic region elastically deforms. The length of such an elastic region or portion of an elastic region may therefore each be considered a "relaxed" length in that it is measured without placing the elastic region in a stretched state.

[0062] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, second ends 308a, 308b each includes a hook material configured to releasably engage a material of the chassis. The hook material can comprise a separate piece, or multiple pieces, of material that is bonded or otherwise attached to the attachment strap. Alternatively, the hook material can be formed from and unitary with the attachment strap itself, rather than being separately formed and attached as a separate sheet of material. For example, U.S. Patent No. 8,784,722 discloses a method and apparatus for producing hook fasteners on a piece of material. In the depicted configuration, the backsheet (192) comprises a material that is directly engageable by hook fasteners of such a hook material. In other embodiments, a loop material is bonded to the backsheet along at least a portion of a length of each side 140, 144 to be releasably engaged by the second ends 308, 308b of the attachment straps 300a, 300b. In the embodiment shown, first ends 304a, 304b are bonded to the chassis such that the first ends are not removable from the chassis without damaging the diaper. In other configurations, first end 304 can be thermally bonded, adhesively bonded, and/or otherwise bonded to the chassis with sufficient strength for diaper 100a to function as described in this disclosure. In other embodiments, first ends 304a, 304b are also releasably coupled to the chassis; for example, first ends 304a, 304b can also comprise a hook material that is releasably engageable with the chassis, such as directly to the backsheet or indirectly via a loop material bonded to the backsheet.

[0063] In the depicted configuration, adjustment straps 300a, 300b of Figure 3 each span a midline 328 of the chassis such that first ends 304a, 304b are on one side of midline 328 and second ends 308a, 308b are on the other side of midline 328. Midline 328 is a disposed across the longitudinal midpoint between the upper edge of front waist portion 108 and the lower edge of rear waist portion 112. In other configurations, such as the one of Figure 5, adjustment straps 300a, 300b may be disposed between midline 328 and front waist portion 108, or between midline 328 and rear waist portion 112. However, in most if not all embodiments, adjustment straps 300a, 300b are each spaced from the uppermost point of the respective leg opening, when the diaper 100a is in the closed configuration, by a distance that is at least 50% of length 320a or 320b of the respective adjustment strap. As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, the uppermost portion of each leg opening is disposed at the point at which rear waist portion meets or overlaps the front waist portion, for example via connection portions 62 shown in FIG. 1A, side seams 70 shown in FIG. IB, or closer members 136 shown in FIGS. 2A-2B.

[0064] In some embodiments, at least a portion of each of adjustment straps 300a, 300b is stretchable. As used in this disclosure, the term "stretch" and "stretchable" are used interchangeably to define a material or composite that can be elongated by at least 10% of its relaxed dimension, i.e., elongated to at least 1.10 times its relaxed dimension (an elongation of 10%), and that will recover upon release of the applied force at least 10% of its elongation. According to this definition, upon release of the applied force at 10% elongation, the material or composite must recover to at least about a 5% or less elongation. For example, a material or composite is deemed to be "stretchable" if a sample length of 100 centimeters can be elongated to a length of at least 110 centimeters, and upon release of the applied force recovers to a length of not more than about 105 centimeters. Many elastic or stretchable materials or composites can be elongated by more than 10% of their relaxed length, and many of these will recover to, or close to, their original relaxed length upon release of the applied force. These materials can include not only webs of elastic or stretchable films, such as cast or blown films, but also nonwoven fibrous elastic webs such as meltblown elastomeric fibrous nonwoven webs and elastic strands. "Elastic," "elasticized" and "elasticity" mean that property of a material by virtue of which it tends to recover its original size and shape after removal of a force causing a deformation. By way of example, attachment straps 300a, 300b can each comprise an elastic strap. In such embodiments, the relaxed length of the portion of the respective side of the chassis to which the first and second ends the adjustment strap are coupled is measured along the adjustment strap with the adjustment strap in its relaxed state. [0065] Liquid-impermeable backsheet 192 can include, for example, an inner liquid- impermeable film and an outer nonwoven backsheet that can be a nonwoven fabric. A "film" is a membrane-like layer of material formed of one or more polymers, which does not have a form consisting predominately of a web-like structure of fibers and/or other fibers. In some embodiments of the present articles, backsheet or outer cover 192 can be breathable, for example, an inner liquid-impermeable film of backsheet 192 can comprise a breathable film. The terms "breathable," "breathable film," "breathable laminate" or "breathable outer cover material" or "breathable backsheet" refers to a film, laminate, or outer cover material having a water vapor transmission rate ("WVTR") of at least about 300 grams/m²/24 hours. Breathable materials typically rely on molecular diffusion of vapor, and are substantially liquid impermeable. "Nonwoven" fabrics, according to an INDA definition, are broadly defined as sheet or web structures bonded together by entangling fiber or filaments (and by perforating films) mechanically, thermally, or chemically. They are flat, porous sheets that are made directly from separate fibers or from molten plastic or plastic film. They are not made by weaving or knitting and do not require converting the fibers to yarn. The basis weight of nonwoven fabrics is usually expressed as gsm or grams per square meter. "Nonwoven backsheet" is a backing substrate layer in the outer cover; a nonwoven backsheet is most often a nonwoven layer facing away from the wearer.

[0066] In some embodiments, the absorbent core (200) may also include a cover layer or envelope material. The absorbent core, and/or the cover layer or envelope material, may comprise: nonwovens, SAP, cellulosic or non-cellulosic materials, films, fibers, or one or more substrates made of any one two or all of these combination materials. "Superabsorbent" or "superabsorbent material" or "SAP" refers to a water- swellable, water- insoluble organic or inorganic material capable, under the most favorable conditions, of absorbing at least about 15 times its weight in an aqueous solution containing 0.9 weight percent sodium chloride and, more desirably, at least about 30 times its weight in an aqueous solution containing 0.9 weight percent sodium chloride and, even more desirably, at least about 50 times its weight in an aqueous solution containing 0.9 weight percent sodium chloride. The SAP materials can be natural, synthetic and modified natural polymers and materials. In addition, the SAP materials can be or include organic compounds such as cross linked polymers.

[0067] Referring now to FIG. 5 and FIGs. 6A-6B, FIG. 5 depicts a bottom plan view of a second embodiment 100b of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically a baby diaper, in an open configuration; and FIGS. 6A and 6B depict perspective views of an enlarged portion of diaper 100b with an adjustment strap shown in disconnected and tightened configurations, respectively. Diaper 100b is substantially similar in many respects to diaper 100a and, therefore, the differences will primarily be described here. For brevity and clarity, many of the reference numerals for features that are similar in diaper 100b to those in diapers 100a and 100 are therefore omitted in FIGs. 5 and 6A-6B, but such features should be understood to be similar to those in diapers 100a and 100 for at least the depicted embodiment of diaper 100b.

[0068] The primary difference in diaper 100b relative to diaper 100a is that diaper 100b includes a third adjustment strap 300c coupled along or adjacent, for example parallel, to first side 140; and a fourth adjustment strap 300d along or adjacent, for example parallel, to second side 144. Third and fourth adjustment straps 300c, 300d can include any of the features or configurations described above for first and second adjustment straps 300a, 300b. For example, in the configuration shown in FIG. 5, third and fourth adjustment straps 300c, 300d are substantially similar to first and second adjustment straps 300a, 300b. In other configurations, first ends 304a, 304b of the first and second adjustment straps may be bonded to the chassis, whereas first ends 304c, 304d of the third and fourth adjustment straps maybe releasably coupled to the chassis such that the third and fourth adjustment straps may be removed entirely if not needed, for example if the first and second adjustment straps are sufficient to reduce leakage for a given wearer of diaper 100b. Additionally, at least for adjustment straps of equal lengths, the inclusion of four adjustment straps permits a greater degree of adjustability than the two adjustment straps of diaper 100a. For example, as shown in Figure 6A in which the second ends of adjustment straps 300c, 300d are not coupled to the chassis, elasticized regions 208 alone may be insufficient to conform the leg openings to the legs of a wearer with a relatively large waist and relatively small legs, thus leaving gaps 400 through which leakage may occur. However, the addition of additional ones of the present adjustment straps, for example adjustment straps 300c, 300d as shown in Figure 6B, can effectively shorten a relaxed length of a portion of the side of the chassis defining a respective leg openings to more-closely conform the leg opening to the wearer's leg by removing gap 400 to reduce leakage.

[0069] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, first and second adjustment straps 300a, 300b are disposed on one side of midline 328, and third and fourth adjustment straps 300c, 300d are disposed on the other side of midline 328. In some embodiments, adjustment straps 300a, 300b are spaced from the uppermost apex of the leg openings, when the diaper 100b is in the closed configuration, by a distance that is at least 10% of length 320a or 320b of the respective adjustment strap— for example greater than any one of, or between any two of: 30%, 35%, 40% 45%, and/or 50% of the length of the respective adjustment strap. Likewise, in some embodiments, adjustment straps 300c, 300d are spaced from the uppermost apex of the leg openings, when the diaper 100b is in the closed configuration, by a distance that is at least 10% of length of the respective adjustment strap— for example greater than any one of, or between any two of: 10%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40% 45%, and/or 50% of the length of the respective adjustment strap. As shown, third adjustment strap 300c can be spaced apart from first adjustment strap 300a, and fourth adjustment strap 300d can be spaced apart from second adjustment strap 300b, for example, by a distance 332 that is greater than any one of, or between any two of: 25%, 30%, 35%, 40% 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, and/or 75% of the length of each strap in the respective pair or, if the straps in the respective pair are of unequal lengths, of the length of the smaller strap of the respective pair. In the depicted configuration, adjustment straps 300a, 300b and adjustment straps 300c, 300d are each also spaced from midline 328 by equal distances. Spacing third and fourth adjustment straps 300c, 300d from first and second adjustment straps 300a, 300b on either side of midline 328 can, for example, minimize chafing at the lowermost point of the leg openings where a wearer's legs may rub together or against the chassis— and specifically the adjustment straps— when the wearer is walking. As with diaper 100a, the adjustment straps 300a, 300b, 300c, 300d may in some embodiments be stretchable.

[0070] Referring now to FIG. 7 and FIGS. 8A-8B, FIG. 7 depicts a bottom plan view of a third embodiment 100c of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically a baby diaper, in an open configuration; and FIGs. 8A and 8B depict diaper 100c with pleats of the diaper in closed and open configurations, respectively. Diaper 100c is substantially similar in many respects to diaper 100 and, therefore, the differences will primarily be described here. For brevity and clarity, many of the reference numerals for features that are similar in diaper 100c to those in diaper 100 are therefore omitted in FIGs. 7 and 8A-8B, but such features should be understood to be similar to those in diaper 100 for at least the depicted embodiment of diaper 100c. The primary difference in diaper 100c relative to diaper 100 is that the chassis of diaper 100c defines one or more first pleats along the first leg opening and one or more second pleats along the second leg opening. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, diaper 100c comprises a plurality of first pleats 500a along first side 140 and a plurality of second pleats 500b along second side 144. As shown, each of pleats 500a, 500b is apart from the uppermost portion of the respective leg opening when the chassis is in its closed configuration. For example, each of pleats 500a, 500b is defined by a fold or gather in a single portion of the chassis, rather than at a point where two parts of the chassis, for example the front and rear portions, come together and are joined to define the closed configuration.

[0071] More particularly, in the embodiment shown, pleats 500a are spaced along first side 140 on both sides of midline 300a and are also spaced from midline 328. Spacing pleats 500a, 500b on either side of midline 328 can, for example, minimize chafing at the lowermost point of the leg openings where a wearer's legs may be rub together or against the chassis— and specifically the pleats— when the wearer is walking. Additionally, at least for adjustment straps of equal lengths, the inclusion of four adjustment straps permits a greater degree of adjustability than the two adjustment straps of diaper 100a.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 7, each pleat is defined by a first portion 504 and second portion 508 gathered or folded and releasably bonded together to decrease the overall relaxed length of the respective side and resulting leg opening. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, overall relaxed length of each of sides 140, 144 of diaper 100c is shorter than overall relaxed length 212 of diaper 100, as a direct result of pleats 500a, 500b. This results in diaper 100c having a higher relative difference between the size of its waist opening and each of its leg openings, because the waist opening can have the same size whereas the size of each leg opening is reduced due to the pleats. However, because portions 504, 508 of chassis are releasably bonded together to define each pleat, those releasable bonds can be separated to increase an overall relaxed length of the respective side, for example, sequentially and incrementally one pleat at a time. For example, if each of pleats 500a is released, the overall relaxed length of side 140 would return to the full length 212 as shown in FIG. 2A. By way of example, FIG. 8A shows a prototype of diaper 100c with pleats 500a, 500b intact, and FIG. 8B shows a prototype of diaper 100c with all of pleats 500a, 500b released, returning the sides and corresponding leg openings to their full relaxed dimension. In this way, diaper 100c can readily function for and fit both for wearers with relatively small legs and wearers with average-size legs. Portions 504, 508 are releasably bonded together via ultrasonic bonds such as are sometimes used to create releasable side bonds for training pants. In other embodiments, portions 504, 508 can be releasably bonded together via adhesive, heat, pressure, and/or the like. [0073] FIG. 9 depicts a bottom plan view of a fourth embodiment lOOd of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically a baby diaper, in an open configuration. Diaper lOOd is substantially similar in many respects to diaper 100a and, therefore, the differences will primarily be described here. For brevity and clarity, many of the reference numerals for features that are similar in diaper lOOd to those in diapers 100a and 100 are therefore omitted in FIG. 9, but such features should be understood to be similar to those in diapers 100a and 100 for at least the depicted embodiment of diaper lOOd. The primary difference in diaper lOOd relative to diaper 100a is that diaper lOOd includes a third and fourth adjustment straps 300d, 300f coupled along or adjacent, for example parallel, to longitudinal end edge 600 of rear waist portion 112. [0074] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, first ends 304e, 304f are bonded to the chassis, for example to a backsheet of the chassis, near rear waist portion 112. In the depicted configuration, second ends 308e, 308f are releasably coupled to the chassis, for example to the backsheet of the chassis, such that the position at which second ends 308e, 308f are coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when second ends 308e, 308f are decoupled from the depicted position and re-coupled to the chassis at positions 312e, 312f, a portion of the chassis is bunched or gathered between first ends 304e, 304f and positions 312e, 312f such that the relaxed length of the portions of the chassis between the points at which first ends 304e, 304f are coupled to the chassis and positions 312e, 312f are effectively shortened. As shown, in the depicted embodiment, second ends 308e, 308f may be releasably couplable to the elastic panels (148) of respective closure members (136) extending laterally from rear waist portion 112. As with diaper 100a, the adjustment straps 300a, 300b, 300e, 300f may in some embodiments be stretchable.

[0075] Third and fourth adjustment straps 300d, 300f can include any of the features or configurations described above for first and second adjustment straps 300a, 300b. For example, in the configuration shown in FIG. 9, third and fourth adjustment straps 300e, 300f are substantially similar to first and second adjustment straps 300a, 300b. In other configurations, first ends 304a, 304b of the first and second adjustment straps may be bonded to the chassis, whereas first ends 304e, 304f of the third and fourth adjustment straps maybe releasably coupled to the chassis such that the third and fourth adjustment straps may be removed entirely if not needed, for example if the waist elastics alone, or only one of third and fourth adjustment straps 304e, 304f, are sufficient to reduce leakage for a given wearer of diaper 100b.

[0076] FIG. 10 depicts a bottom plan view of a fifth embodiment lOOe of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically an baby diaper, in an open configuration. Diaper lOOe is substantially similar in many respects to diapers 100c and 100 and, therefore, the differences will primarily be described here. For brevity and clarity, many of the reference numerals for features that are similar in diaper lOOe to those in diapers 100c and 100 are therefore omitted in FIG. 9, but such features should be understood to be similar to those in diapers 100c and 100 for at least the depicted embodiment of diaper lOOe. The primary difference in diaper lOOe relative to diapers 100c and 100 is that the chassis of diaper lOOe defines one or more third pleats along the waist opening, in addition to the pleats along the respective leg openings. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, diaper lOOe comprises a plurality of third pleats 500c along waist edge 600 of rear waist portion 112, in addition to the first pleats (500a) along first side 140 and second pleats (500b) along second side 144. While a plurality of third pleats 300c are shown, other embodiments may include only a single third pleat 300c along the waist opening. Further, other embodiments may include one or more third pleats along the waist opening on front waist portion 108 of the chassis. As described above in connection with FIG. 7, each pleat is defined by a first portion 504 and second portion 508 gathered or folded and releasably bonded together to decrease the overall relaxed length of the respective side and resulting leg opening. Because portions 504, 508 of chassis are releasably bonded together to define each pleat, those releasable bonds can be separated to increase an overall relaxed length of the respective side, for example, sequentially and incrementally one pleat at a time. For example, if each of pleats 500c is released, the overall relaxed length of waist edge 600 would return to its full dimension. While diaper lOOe is shown with pleats along the waist edge and the leg openings, other embodiments may omit the pleats along the leg openings and therefore have pleats only along the waist opening. [0077] The above specification and examples provide a complete description of the structure and use of illustrative embodiments. Although certain embodiments have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the scope of this invention. As such, the various illustrative embodiments of the methods and systems are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, they include all modifications and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims, and embodiments other than the one shown may include some or all of the features of the depicted embodiment. For example, elements may be omitted or combined as a unitary structure, and/or connections may be substituted. Further, where appropriate, aspects of any of the examples described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other examples described to form further examples having comparable or different properties and/or functions, and addressing the same or different problems. Similarly, it will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment or may relate to several embodiments.

[0078] By way of example, diaper 100a can include one or more pleats in addition to its adjustment straps, and/or diaper 100b can include one or more adjustment straps in addition to its pleats. [0079] As an additional example, FIGs. 3, 5, and 7 depict chassis 104 as a single-member chassis in which front waist portion 108, rear waist portion 112, and crotch portion 116 are defined by corresponding regions of a common chassis member. However, in other embodiments, the present absorbent articles can include a multi-member chassis, such as, for example, a well-known three-part construction in which the front waist portion is defined by a first chassis member or "front waist panel," the rear waist portion is defined by a second chassis member or "rear waist panel," and the crotch portion is defined by a third chassis member or "crotch panel" having a first end coupled to the first chassis member and a second end coupled to the second chassis member. Additionally, while the present absorbent articles are described with reference to baby diapers and training pants, the present absorbent articles can also comprise adult incontinence briefs and protective underwear. For example, adult incontinence briefs and protective underwear can also be provided with one or more of the present adjustment straps or pleats. Additionally, any of the present absorbent articles can comprise any of the various other elements and variations described in connection with the various chassis configurations, such as, for example, absorbent core(s), ADL(s), backsheet(s), topsheets, closure members, and/or the like.

[0080] For example, FIGs. 11-12 depict examples of adult incontinence briefs and FIGs. 13-14, depict examples of adult protective underwear. [0081] FIG. 11 depicts a bottom plan view of a sixth embodiment lOOf of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically an adult incontinence brief, in an open configuration. Brief lOOf is substantially similar in many respects to diapers lOOe, 100c, and 100 and, therefore, the differences will primarily be described here. For brevity and clarity, many of the reference numerals for features that are similar in brief lOOf to those in diapers lOOe, 100c, and 100 are therefore omitted in FIG. 11, but such features should be understood to be similar to those in diapers lOOe, 100c, and 100 for at least the depicted embodiment of brief lOOf. The primary difference in brief lOOf relative to diapers lOOe, 100c, and 100 is that the chassis of brief lOOf is in an adult brief configuration rather than an baby diaper configuration. The basic materials, however, may be the same. In the depicted configuration, brief lOOf includes a plurality of first pleats (500a) along first side 140 and second pleats (500b) along second side 144. While third pleats 500c are not shown, other configurations may include one or more third pleats 500c along the waist opening on front waist portion 108 and/or on rear waist portion 112, with or without pleats on the sides. [0082] FIG. 12 depicts a bottom plan view of a seventh embodiment lOOg of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically an adult incontinence brief, in an open configuration. Brief is substantially similar in many respects to diapers lOOd and 100a and, therefore, the differences will primarily be described here. For brevity and clarity, many of the reference numerals for features that are similar in brief lOOg to those in diapers lOOd, 100a, and 100 are therefore omitted in FIG. 12, but such features should be understood to be similar to those in diapers lOOd, 100a, and 100 for at least the depicted embodiment of brief lOOg. The primary difference in brief lOOg relative to diapers lOOd and 100a is that the chassis of brief lOOg is in an adult brief configuration rather than an baby diaper configuration. The basic materials, however, may be the same. As shown, brief lOOf includes adjustment straps 300a and 300b along the sides (140, 144) and adjustment straps 300e and 300f along the rear waist portion. Other configurations may include no or multiple adjustment straps along each side, adjustment straps along the front waist portion, or no adjustment straps along the waist portion.

[0083] FIG. 13 depicts a bottom plan view of an eight embodiment lOOh of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically an adult protective or pull-up underwear, in an open configuration. Underwear lOOh is substantially similar in many respects to diapers lOOe, 100c, and 100 and, therefore, the differences will primarily be described here. For brevity and clarity, many of the reference numerals for features that are similar in underwear lOOh to those in diapers lOOe, 100c, and 100 are therefore omitted in FIG. 13, but such features should be understood to be similar to those in diapers lOOe, 100c, and 100 for at least the depicted embodiment of underwear. The primary difference in underwear lOOh relative to diapers lOOe, 100c, and 100 is that the chassis of underwear lOOh is in an adult pull-up underwear configuration rather than. The chassis of underwear lOOh in this configuration is a three-piece chassis with a rear waist panel 700, front waist panel 704, and a crotch assembly 708 (which includes the absorbent core). It should be understood that the pull up underwear configuration is typically sold in a pre-fastened configuration in which the lateral edges of the waist panels are joined. The basic materials, however, may be the same. In the depicted configuration, underwear lOOh includes a plurality of first pleats (500a) along a leg-opening edge of rear waist panel 700 on first side 140, second pleats (500b) along a leg-opening edge of rear waist panel 700 on second side 144, and third pleats 300c along a waist-opening edge of rear waist panel 700. While pleats are not shown on front waist panel 704, other configurations may include one or more of first pleats 300a, one or more second pleats 300b, and/or one or more third pleats 300c along the respective edges of front waist panel 704.

[0084] FIG. 14 depicts a bottom plan view of a ninth embodiment lOOi of the present disposable absorbent articles, specifically an adult protective or pull-up underwear, in an open configuration. The chassis of underwear lOOi is substantially similar to that of underwear lOOh. Underwear lOOi, however, includes adjustment straps 300a and 300b on front waist panel 704 along the leg-opening edges on respective sides (140, 144) and adjustment straps 300e and 300f along the waist-opening edge of rear waist panel 700. Other configurations may include adjustment straps along the leg-opening edge of rear waist panel 700 and/or along the waist-opening edge of front waist panel 704.

[0085] Further, while certain examples are depicted in the figures and described above, adjustment straps (e.g., 300, 300a, 300b, 300c, 300d, 300e, 300f) can be included in any suitable number, combination, and/or orientation). For example, while Figure 3 depicts two adjustment straps crossing midline 328 of the chassis with their respective first ends 304a, 304b closer to the front waist portion than to the rear waist portion, these adjustment straps could alternatively be provided: with their respective first ends closer to the rear waist portion than to the front waist portion; with their respective first ends disposed on or near midline 328 and their respective first ends closer to one of the front or rear waist portions than to the midline, e.g., with their respective first ends on midline 328 and their respective second ends closer to the front waist portion than to the midline; entirely on one side of midline 328 with their respective first ends closer to either one of the front or rear waist portions than to the midline, e.g., entirely on a front side of the midline with their respective first ends closer to the front waist portion than to the midline and their respective second ends closer to the midline than to the front waist portion, or entirely on a rear side of the midline with their respective first ends closer to the rear waist portion than to the midline and their respective second ends closer to the midline than to the rear waist portion. Similarly, while Figure 5 depicts four adjustment straps with two adjustment straps on either side of midline 328 and their respective first ends farther from the midline than their respective second ends, these adjustment straps could alternatively be provided with their respective first ends farther from the midline than their respective second ends.

[0086] The above specification and examples provide a complete description of the structure and use of illustrative embodiments. Although certain embodiments have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the scope of this invention. As such, the various illustrative embodiments of the methods and systems are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, they include all modifications and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims, and embodiments other than the one shown may include some or all of the features of the depicted embodiment. For example, elements may be omitted or combined as a unitary structure, and/or connections may be substituted. Further, where appropriate, aspects of any of the examples described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other examples described to form further examples having comparable or different properties and/or functions, and addressing the same or different problems. Similarly, it will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment or may relate to several embodiments.

[0087] The claims are not intended to include, and should not be interpreted to include, means-plus- or step-plus-function limitations, unless such a limitation is explicitly recited in a given claim using the phrase(s) "means for" or "step for," respectively.

Claims

A disposable absorbent article comprising:

a chassis having opposing front and rear waist portions, a crotch portion extending longitudinally between the front and rear waist portions, where a first end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a first end of the rear waist portion and a second end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a second end of the rear waist portion to define a closed configuration in which the front and rear waist portions cooperate to encircle and define a waist opening, a left side of the chassis defines a first leg opening, and a right side of the chassis defines a second leg opening; and a first adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the first adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a portion of the left side of the chassis that defines the first leg opening; and

a second adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the second adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a portion of the right side of the chassis that defines the second leg opening.

The article of claim 1, further comprising:

one or more elastic elements coupled to the chassis such that the one or more elastic elements resist expansion of at least a portion of a circumference of the first leg opening and resist expansion of at least a portion of a circumference of the second leg opening;

where the position at which the second end of the first adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a portion of the left side of the chassis that defines the first leg opening, and the position at which the second end of the second adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a portion of the right side of the chassis that defines the second leg opening.

3. The article of claim 2, further comprising:

a third adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the third adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a second portion of the left side of the chassis that defines the first leg opening; and

a fourth adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the fourth adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a second portion of the right side of the chassis that defines the second leg opening.

where the position at which the second end of the first adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a portion of the left side of the chassis that defines the first leg opening, the position at which the second end of the second adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a portion of the right side of the chassis that defines the second leg opening, that the position at which the second end of the third adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a second portion of the left side of the chassis that defines the first leg opening; and the position at which the second end of the fourth adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a second portion of the right side of the chassis that defines the second leg opening.

4. The article of any of claims 1-3, where the second end of each of the adjustment straps includes a hook material configured to releasably engage a material of the chassis.

5. The article of claim 4, where the first end of each of the adjustment straps is bonded to the chassis.

6. The article of claim 5, where at least a portion of each of the adjustment straps is stretchable.

7. The article of claim 1, further comprising:

a third adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the third adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a first portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening.

8. The article of claim 1, further comprising:

two closure members each having a first end bonded to the rear waist portion of the chassis, and a second end configured to overlap and be releasably coupled to the front waist portion to define the closed configuration.

9. The article of claim 8, where each of the closure members comprises an elastic panel and a fastener portion coupled to the second end of the closure member, the fastener portion configured to be releasably coupled to the front waist portion.

10. The article of claim 9, further comprising:

a third adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the third adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a first portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening; and

a fourth adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably coupled to the chassis such that the position at which the second end of the fourth adjustment strap is coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a length of a second portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening.

11. The article of claim 10, where the second ends the third and fourth adjustment straps are configured to be releasably coupled to the elastic panel of a respective one of the closure members.

12. The article of any of claims 9-10, where the fastener portion comprises a hook material.

13. The article of any of claims 1-12, where the chassis defines one or more first pleats along the first leg opening and one or more second pleats along the second leg opening, each of the first and second pleats spaced apart from the uppermost portion of the respective leg opening when the chassis is in its closed configuration; and where each of the first and second pleats is defined by a portions of the chassis releasably bonded together and configured to be separated to increase a length of a portion of the side of the chassis that defines the respective leg opening.

14. The article of any of claims 1-13, where the front waist portion, rear waist portion, and crotch portion are defined by corresponding regions of a common chassis member.

15. The article of any of claims 1-13, where the chassis comprises a topsheet, a backsheet bonded to the topsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet.

16. A disposable absorbent article comprising:

a chassis having opposing front and rear waist portions, a crotch portion extending longitudinally between the front and rear waist portions, where a first end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a first end of the rear waist portion and a second end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a second end of the rear waist portion to define a closed configuration in which the front and rear waist portions cooperate to encircle and define a waist opening, a left side of the chassis defines a first leg opening, and a right side of the chassis defines a second leg opening; and where the chassis defines one or more first pleats along the first leg opening and one or more second pleats along the second leg opening, each of the first and second pleats spaced apart from the uppermost portion of the respective leg opening when the chassis is in its closed configuration;

where each of the first and second pleats are defined by a portions of the chassis releasably bonded together and configured to be separated to increase a length of a portion of the side of the chassis that defines the respective leg opening.

17. The article of claim 16, further comprising:

where each of the first and second pleats is defined by a portions of the chassis releasably bonded together and configured to be separated to increase a relaxed length of a portion of the side of the chassis that defines the respective leg opening.

18. The article of claim 16, where the chassis defines a plurality of the first pleats and a plurality of the second pleats.

19. The article of any of claims 16-18, where the portions of the chassis that are releasably bonded together to define each pleat are ultrasonically bonded together.

20. The article of claim 16, where the chassis defines one or more third pleats along the waist opening, and each of the third pleats are defined by a portions of the chassis releasably bonded together and configured to be separated to increase a length of a portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening.

21. A disposable absorbent article comprising:

a chassis having opposing front and rear waist portions, a crotch portion extending longitudinally between the front and rear waist portions, where a first end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a first end of the rear waist portion and a second end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a second end of the rear waist portion to define a closed configuration in which the front and rear waist portions cooperate to encircle and define a waist opening, a left side of the chassis defines a first leg opening, and a right side of the chassis defines a second leg opening;

two closure members each having a first end bonded to the rear waist portion of the chassis, and a second end configured to overlap and be releasably coupled to the front waist portion to define the closed configuration, each of the closure members comprises an elastic panel and a fastener portion coupled to the second end of the closure member, the fastener portion configured to be releasably coupled to the front waist portion;

a first adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the rear waist portion and a second end releasably couplable to the elastic panel of a first one of the closure members such that the position at which the second end of the first adjustment strap is coupled to the elastic panel of the first closure member can be adjusted to reduce a length of a first portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening; and

a second adjustment strap having a first end coupled to the chassis and a second end releasably couplable to the elastic panel of a second one of the closure members such that the position at which the second end of the second adjustment strap is coupled to the elastic panel of the second closure member can be adjusted to reduce a length of a second portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening.

22. The article of claim 21, further comprising:

one or more elastic elements coupled to the chassis such that the one or more elastic elements resist expansion of at least a portion of a circumference of the waist opening;

where the position at which the second ends of the first and second adjustment straps are coupled to the chassis can be adjusted to reduce a relaxed length of a portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening.

23. The article of any of claims 21-22, where the second end of each of the adjustment straps includes a hook material configured to releasably engage a material of the chassis.

24. The article of claim 23, where the first end of each of the adjustment straps is bonded to the chassis.

25. The article of claim 24, where at least a portion of each of the adjustment straps is stretchable. A disposable absorbent article comprising:

a chassis having opposing front and rear waist portions, a crotch portion extending longitudinally between the front and rear waist portions, where a first end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a first end of the rear waist portion and a second end of the front waist portion is configured to be coupled to a second end of the rear waist portion to define a closed configuration in which the front and rear waist portions cooperate to encircle and define a waist opening, a left side of the chassis defines a first leg opening, and a right side of the chassis defines a second leg opening; and where the chassis defines one or more first pleats along the waist opening; and where each of the first pleats are defined by a portions of the chassis releasably bonded together and configured to be separated to increase a length of a portion of the chassis that defines the waist opening.