WO1997024098A1 - Absorbent article fastening system and its method of manufacture - Google Patents
Absorbent article fastening system and its method of manufacture Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO1997024098A1 WO1997024098A1 PCT/US1996/019473 US9619473W WO9724098A1 WO 1997024098 A1 WO1997024098 A1 WO 1997024098A1 US 9619473 W US9619473 W US 9619473W WO 9724098 A1 WO9724098 A1 WO 9724098A1
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- interiocking
- fastening component
- absoφent
- garment
- major surface
- Prior art date
Links
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
- A44B—BUTTONS, PINS, BUCKLES, SLIDE FASTENERS, OR THE LIKE
- A44B18/00—Fasteners of the touch-and-close type; Making such fasteners
- A44B18/0069—Details
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
- A44B—BUTTONS, PINS, BUCKLES, SLIDE FASTENERS, OR THE LIKE
- A44B18/00—Fasteners of the touch-and-close type; Making such fasteners
- A44B18/0046—Fasteners made integrally of plastics
- A44B18/0061—Male or hook elements
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
- A61F13/15577—Apparatus or processes for manufacturing
- A61F13/15756—Applying tabs, strips, tapes, loops; Knotting the ends of pads
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
- A61F13/56—Supporting or fastening means
- A61F13/62—Mechanical fastening means, ; Fabric strip fastener elements, e.g. hook and loop
- A61F13/622—Fabric strip fastener elements, e.g. hook and loop
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
- A61F13/56—Supporting or fastening means
- A61F13/64—Straps, belts, ties or endless bands
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/27—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc. including readily dissociable fastener having numerous, protruding, unitary filaments randomly interlocking with, and simultaneously moving towards, mating structure [e.g., hook-loop type fastener]
- Y10T24/2775—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc. including readily dissociable fastener having numerous, protruding, unitary filaments randomly interlocking with, and simultaneously moving towards, mating structure [e.g., hook-loop type fastener] having opposed structure formed from distinct filaments of diverse shape to those mating therewith
Definitions
- the present invention relates to an absorbent article having an improved fastening system and a method of making such an absorbent article. More particularly, the invention pertains to an absorbent article that is maintained in place about a wearer by a fastening system that is adapted to resist pop-offs.
- Absorbent articles such as adult incontinence products, training pants, diapers and sanitary napkins have been constructed with a wide variety of unique fastening systems.
- fastening systems are adhesive tape fasteners, garment attachment adhesives, straps with buttons, stretcliable side panels, and interlocking fastening components.
- the type of fastening system is selected to maintain the particular product form in proper position until removed by the wearer or caregiver.
- interlocking fastening component refers lo a material lhal refastenably connects to a mating material through the use of engaging elements so that the mating materials resist disengagement in a shear mode and allow disengagement in a peel mode.
- Hook-and- loop fasteners are the most widespread example of interlocking fastening components.
- the recent enthusiasm for fastening systems using interlocking fastening components is attributable in part to heightened consumer acceptance of interlocking fastening components, as well as improved performance and decreased cost of such materials.
- fastener failures may include such undesired events as disassembly of the fastener components, non-refastenability, or the like.
- One particulariy significant form of failure for fasteners with interlocking fastening components is a pop-off, which refers to the unintentional disengagement of the interlocking fastening components from one another during use of the absorbent article. Needless to say, this is particulariy undesirable for the wearer given the nature of the product.
- the absorbent article utilizes a fastening system with interlocking fastening components and provides improved resistance to pop-offs.
- the present invention concerns the absorbent article including a garment and at least one strap member for securing the garment about the wearer.
- the garment has a first waist region, a second waist region, and a crotch region positioned between and interconnecting the first and second waist regions.
- a first interlocking fastening component is disposed in the first waist region of the garment.
- the strap member has opposite first and second end portions and includes a second interlocking fastening component bonded to the first end portion. The second interlocking fastening
- the Z- component is adapted for refastenable attachment to the first interiocking fastening component.
- the second interiocking fastening component includes a backing structure formed of a resilient material and having a concave first major surface with a bending index of at least about 0.3 inch '1 .
- a plurality of engaging elements project from the first major surface.
- the absorbent article also includes means for attaching the second end portion of the strap member to the second waist region.
- the present invention concerns an absorbent article including a garment with a first waist region, a second waist region, and a crotch region positioned between and interconnecting the first and second waist regions.
- the garment has a first interiocking fastening component disposed in the first waist region.
- the absorbent articie also includes at least one strap member for securing the garment about a wearer.
- the strap member has opposite first and second end portions with a second interlocking fastening component bonded to the first end portion.
- the second interiocking fastening component is adapted for refastenable attachment to the first interiocking fastening component.
- the second interiocking fastening component includes a backing structure formed of a resilient material and having a concave first major surface.
- a central portion of the first major surface is elevated by at least about 1.0 millimeter from a plane containing opposite peripheral points of the first major surface.
- a plurality of engaging elements project from the first major surface.
- the absorbent article also includes means for attaching the second end portion of the strap member to the second waist region.
- the present invention concerns an absorbent garment with a first waist region, a second waist region, and a crotch region positioned between and interconnecting the first and second waist regions.
- a first interlocking fastening component is disposed in the first waist region of the garment, and a second interiocking fastening component is disposed in the second waist region of the garment.
- the second interiocking fastening component which is adapted for refastenable attachment to the first interiocking fastening component, includes a backing structure formed of a resilient material.
- the backing structure has a concave first major surface with a bending index of at least about 0.3 inch '1 , and a plurality of engaging elements project from the first major surface.
- the present invention concerns an absorbent garment having a first waist region, a second waist region, and a crotch region positioned between and interconnecting the first and second waist regions.
- the garment includes a first interiocking fastening component disposed in the first waist region, and a second interiocking fastening component disposed in the second waist region.
- the second interiocking fastening component is adapted for refastenable attachment to the first interiocking fastening component.
- the second interlocking fastening component includes a backing structure formed of a resilient material and having a concave first major surface.
- the first major surface has a central portion that is elevated by at least about 1.0 millimeter from a plane containing opposite peripheral points.
- a plurality of engaging elements project from the first major surface of the backing structure.
- the absorbent articles may be in the form of adult incontinence products, training pants, diapers, sanitary napkins, or the like.
- the absorbent articles include a moisture barrier, an absorbent assembly disposed on the moisture barrier, and a bodyside liner bonded to the moisture barrier and sandwiching the absorbent assembly therebetween.
- Such absorbent articles are generally positioned in the crotch area and worn beneath underpants or other clothing.
- the absorbent articles are generally constructed of flexible components so that they conform to the body of the wearer.
- the first interiocking fastening component of the fastening system which either forms an integral part of the garment or is a separate element attached to the garment, desirably comprises a generally flexible material. Consequently, the first interiocking fastening component tends to conform to the shape of the wearer and enhance comfort.
- the second interlocking fastening component is desirably formed of a stiffer, resilient material so that the wearer or caregiver can easily grasp the second interiocking fastening component to disengage the fastening system.
- the term resilient refers to the property of the backing structure that enables it to resume its curved configuration after being bent as a result of disengagement of the mating interiocking materials.
- the resiliency of the second interiocking fastening component also minimizes the likelihood that the fastening component will become deformed, in which case the fastening component edges and/or engaging elements are exposed and tend to snag on clothing or other materials.
- the wearer or caregiver may apply or remove underpants or other clothing over the product. For example, clothing may be pulled over
- absorbent articles including an interlocking fastening component having a resilient, concave backing structure are particulariy well suited to maintain proper attachment of the fastening system when clothing is raised or lowered over the article.
- the edges and corners of the resilient, contoured interiocking fastening components do not project tangentially away from the body of the wearer as is the case with conventional flat interlocking fastening components.
- the edges and comers of the contoured interlocking fastening components penetrate deeply into the mating interiocking materials. This deep penetration ensures that clothing or other materials passing over the garment fastening system are less likely to snag on protruding edges and corners. This is thought to be a particulariy significant problem for small individuals, where the angles of curvature of the body may be greater than for less slim individuals.
- the concavity of the interiocking fastening component may be characterized in terms of a bending index of the fastening component.
- the bending index is determined from the radius of curvature of the surface of the fastening component that includes the engaging elements.
- the major surface including the engaging elements desirably has a bending index of at least 0.3 inch "1 , and more particulariy at least about 0.5 inch "1 .
- the bending index may be from 0.3 to about 1.1 inch '1 , and more particulariy from about 0.5 to about 1.1 inch '1 .
- This concavity may be in the direction of either the primary meridian or the secondary meridian of the interlocking fastening component.
- the major surface including the engaging elements may have a concave configuration in the direction of both the primary and secondary meridians, in which case the fastening component is said to be three- dimensionally concave.
- the major surface including the engaging elements may have a bending index in the direction of the primary meridian of at least about 0.6 inch "1 and a bending index in the direction of the secondary meridian of at least about 1 inch "1 .
- the concavity of the interlocking fastening component may also be characterized by the amount of elevation of a central portion of the fastening component.
- the elevation of the central portion of the interlocking fastening component is determined in relation to selected peripheral points on the fastening component.
- the peripheral points are located either longitudinally or transversely outward of the a selected central, intermediate point.
- the opposite peripheral points may correspond to the opposite edges of the interiocking fastening component or to points disposed between the central, intermediate point and the opposite edges.
- the major surface of the fastening component that includes the engaging elements desirably has a central portion that is elevated by at least about 1.0 millimeter, and more particularly at least about 1.5 millimeters, from a plane containing the peripheral points.
- the central portion may be elevated by about 1.0 to about 2.0 millimeters, such as about 1.5 to about 2.0 millimeters, from a plane containing the opposite edges of the fastening component.
- the resilient backing structure of the curved interiocking fastening component is adapted to retain a concave shape after 15 attachment and detachment cycles of the first and second interlocking fastening components.
- the improved performance of the fastening system is sustained over multiple attachment and detachment cycles.
- This feature is particularly desirable for adult incontinence products, because such products commonly include a single set of elastic attachment straps for use with 15 to 20 or more garments.
- the resilient interiocking fastening components are desirably inco ⁇ orated on the elastic attachment straps, the resilient interiocking fastening components should maintain their curvature in order to remain effective after use with several garments.
- the ability of the resilient interiocking fastening component to retain a concave configuration can be enhanced by controlling the construction of the backing structure.
- the backing structure of the concave interlocking fastening component is desirably formed of a material that has sufficient memory characteristics that the backing structure will return to a concave configuration after repeated engagement and disengagement cycles with a complementary fastening component.
- the backing structure has a composition of nylon or polypropylene, a thickness of about 0.1 to about 0.5 millimeters, and a Gurley stiffness of about 250 to about 3000 milligrams.
- the present invention provides for the production of an absorbent article with a fastener that reduces pop-offs.
- the invention concerns a method of forming an absorbent article including the following steps: (1) providing a garment having a first waist region, a second waist region, and a crotch region positioned between and interconnecting the first and second waist regions; (2) bonding a first interlocking fastening component to the first waist region; (3) providing at least one strap member having opposite first and second end portions; (4) providing a second interlocking fastening component adapted for refastenable attachment to the first interiocking fastening component, the second interiocking fastening component comprising a backing structure formed of a resilient material and having a first major surface with a plurality of engaging elements projecting from the first major surface; (5) forming the first major surface with a concave configuration and a bending index of at least about 0.3 inch '1 ; (6) bonding the second interiocking fastening component to the first end portion; and
- the invention concerns a method of forming an absorbent article including the following steps: (1) providing a garment having a first waist region, a second waist region, and a crotch region positioned between and interconnecting the first and second waist regions; (2) bonding a first interiocking fastening component to the first waist region; (3) providing a second interiocking fastening component adapted for refastenable attachment to the first interiocking fastening component, the second interlocking fastening component comprising a backing structure formed of a resilient material and having a first major surface with a plurality of engaging elements projecting from the first major surface; (4) forming the first major surface with a concave configuration and a bending index of at least about 0.3 inch '1 ; and (5) bonding the second interlocking fastening component to the second waist region.
- Fig. 1 representatively shows a front plan view of a disposable abso ⁇ ent article according to the present invention positioned on an adult-sized mannequin.
- Fig. 2 representatively shows a perspective view of one of the strap members of the disposable abso ⁇ ent article of Fig. 1.
- Fig. 3 representatively shows an enlarged perspective view of one end portion of the strap member shown in Fig. 2.
- Fig. 4 representatively shows an enlarged section view taken generally from the plane of the line 4-4 in Fig. 2.
- Fig. 5 representatively shows an enlarged section view taken generally from the plane of the line 5-5 in Fig. 2.
- Fig. 6 representatively shows an enlarged section view similar to Fig. 5 but illustrating an alternative embodiment of the invention.
- Fig. 7 representatively shows a plan view of a garment portion of the disposable absorbent article shown in Fig. 1 , taken from the outer garment side of the absorbent article in a stretched and laid flat condition and with portions broken away for pu ⁇ oses of illustration.
- Fig. 8 representatively shows an enlarged section view of an exemplary loop material.
- Fig. 9 representatively shows a plan view of an alternative disposable abso ⁇ ent article according to the present invention, taken from the inner bodyside of the abso ⁇ ent
- Fig. 10 representatively shows a top view of an apparatus used to test components of disposable abso ⁇ ent articles.
- Fig. 11 representatively shows a side view of the apparatus shown in Fig. 10.
- an abso ⁇ ent article formed according to the invention is shown for pu ⁇ oses of illustration as a disposable undergarment 20 for adult incontinence which is maintained in position about a wearer by an attachment system comprising a pair of strap members 50.
- the term disposable includes being disposed of after use and not intended to be washed and reused.
- the undergarment 20 is shown in Fig. 1 positioned on a mannequin 21 to illustrate the position the undergarment assumes during use.
- the invention may also be embodied in other types of garments, such as other disposable abso ⁇ ent articles, reusable abso ⁇ ent articles, or the like.
- the undergarment 20 includes first interiocking fastening components 52 disposed on the undergarment 20 and second interiocking fastening components 54 bonded to the strap members 50.
- the second interiocking fastening components 54 comprise a resilient backing structure 72 having a first major surface 74 including a plurality of engaging elements 78 (Figs. 3-5).
- the first major surface 74 is adapted to have a concave shape in the direction of a primary meridian 80, in the direction of a secondary meridian 82, or in both directions.
- the concavity of the first major surface 74 is described in detail below and is characterized in terms of a bending index or an elevation of a central portion 87 of the surface 74.
- the illustrated undergarment 20 defines a longitudinal axis or center line represented by arrow 22 and a transverse axis or center line represented by arrow 24.
- the longitudinal axis 22 generally corresponds to the machine direction of the garment during manufacture and the greatest planar dimension of the product.
- the undergarment 20 has opposite, front and back longitudinal end edges 26 and 27, and longitudinal side edges 28 that extend between the longitudinal end edges.
- the undergarment 20 includes a first or front waist region 30, a second or back waist region 32, and an intermediate, crotch region 34 positioned between and interconnecting the front and back waist regions.
- the outer edges of the undergarment 20 define a periphery 36 in which the longitudinally extending side margins are designated 38 and the laterally extending end margins are designated 39.
- the end edges 26 and 27 and side edges 28 are shown as generally straight, but optionally, may be curvilinear and contoured.
- the front waist region 30 is contiguous with the front end edge 26 and extends longitudinally inward therefrom toward the transverse center line 24 of the undergarment 20.
- the back waist region 32 is contiguous with the back end edge 27 and extends longitudinally inward therefrom toward the transverse center line 24.
- the waist regions 30 and 32 comprise those upper portions of undergarment 20 which, when worn, wholly or partially cover or encircle the waist or mid-lower torso of the wearer.
- the intermediate, crotch region 34 comprises that portion of undergarment 20 which, when worn, is positioned between the legs of the wearer and covers the lower torso of the wearer (Fig. 1).
- the crotch region 34 is the area where insults of urine typically occur in the undergarment or other disposable absorbent article.
- the undergarment 20 includes a substantially liquid impermeable moisture barrier 40, an abso ⁇ ent assembly 42 disposed on the moisture barrier, and a substantially liquid permeable bodyside liner 44 bonded to the moisture barrier to sandwich the abso ⁇ ent assembly therebetween (Fig. 7).
- the moisture barrier 40 and bodyside liner 44 are desirably longer and wider than the abso ⁇ ent assembly 42 so that the peripheries of the moisture barrier and bodyside liner may be bonded together using ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds, adhesives, or other suitable means.
- the peripheries of the moisture barrier 40 and the bodyside liner 44 typically form the side and end margins 38 and 39 of the undergarment 20.
- the absorbent assembly 42 may be bonded directly to the moisture barrier 40 and/or the bodyside liner 44 using ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds, adhesives, or other suitable means.
- bonded refers to the joining, adhering, connecting, attaching, or the like, of two elements. 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.
- disposed, disposed on, disposed with, disposed at, disposed near and variations thereof are intended to mean that one element can be integral with another element, or that one element can be a separate structure bonded to or placed with or placed near another element.
- the moisture barrier 40 desirably comprises a material that is formed or treated to be liquid impermeable.
- the moisture barrier 40 may comprise a liquid permeable material and other suitable means may be provided to impede liquid movement away from the abso ⁇ ent assembly, such as a liquid impermeable layer (not shown) associated with the absorbent assembly 42.
- the moisture barrier 40 may also be gas permeable, such that gases encountered during use of the abso ⁇ ent garment are able to pass through the material under ordinary use conditions, over either all or part of its surface area.
- the moisture barrier 40 may comprise a single layer of material or a laminate of two or more separate layers of material. Suitable moisture barrier materials include films, wovens, nonwovens, laminates of films, wovens, and/or nonwovens, or the like.
- the moisture barrier 40 may comprise a thin, substantially liquid impermeable web or sheet of plastic film such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride or similar material.
- the moisture barrier material may be transparent or opaque and have an embossed or matte surface.
- One particular material for the moisture barrier 40 is a polyethylene film that has a nominal thickness of about 0.025 millimeter and a systematic matte embossed pattern, and that has been corona treated on both sides.
- Another suitable moisture barrier material is an adhesive or thermal laminate comprising a cast or blown film formed of polypropylene, polyethylene or the like, and a spunbond web formed of polypropylene and polyethylene medium-crimped bicomponent fibers in a 50/50 side-by-side configuration.
- the abso ⁇ ent assembly 42 comprises materials adapted to abso ⁇ and retain liquid waste.
- the abso ⁇ ent assembly 42 may comprise various abso ⁇ ent materials, such as an air-formed batt of cellulosic fibers (i.e., wood pulp fluff) or a coform material composed of a mixture of cellulosic fibers and synthetic polymer fibers.
- Polymer fibers may be inco ⁇ orated, for example, in the manner described in U.S. Patent 5,227,107 issued July 13, 1993, to Dickenson et al.
- the abso ⁇ ent assembly 42 may also include compounds to increase its absorbency, such as 0 - 95 weight percent of organic or w inorganic high-abso ⁇ ency materials, which are typically capable of abso ⁇ ing at least about 15 and desirably more than 25 times their weight in water. Suitable high- abso ⁇ ency materials are described in U.S. Patents 4,699,823 issued October 13, 1987, to Kellenberger et al. and 5,147,343 issued September 15, 1992, to Kellenberger, which are inco ⁇ orated herein by reference. High-abso ⁇ ency materials are available from various commercial vendors, such as Dow Chemical Company, Hoechst Celanese Co ⁇ oration, and Allied Colloids, Inc.
- the abso ⁇ ent assembly 42 may also include tissue layers or acquisition or distribution layers to help maintain the integrity of fibrous abso ⁇ ents or transport liquids (not shown).
- the bodyside liner 44 is formed of a liquid permeable material so that liquid waste, and possibly semi-solid waste as well, can pass through the liner and be abso ⁇ ed by the abso ⁇ ent assembly 42.
- Suitable bodyside liners 44 may comprise a nonwoven web or sheet of wet strength tissue paper, a spunbonded, meltblown or bonded-carded web composed of synthetic polymer filaments or fibers, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polyesters or the like, or a web of natural polymer filaments or fibers such as rayon or cotton.
- the bodyside liner 44 is desirably nonelastic and may be treated with a surfactant to aid in liquid transfer.
- the liner 44 comprises a nonwoven, spunbond polypropylene fabric composed of about 2.8 - 3.2 denier fibers formed into a web having a basis weight of about 22 gsm and density of about 0.06 gm/cc.
- the fabric is surface treated with about 0.28 weight percent of a surfactant commercially available from Rohm and Haas Co. under the trade designation Triton X-102.
- the term fabric is used to refer to all of the woven, knitted and nonwoven fibrous webs.
- nonwoven web means a web of material which is formed without the aid of a textile weaving or knitting process.
- the undergarment 20, which is in a stretched and laid flat condition in Fig. 7, is illustrated as having a rectangular periphery 36.
- the undergarment 20 may optionally be hourglass-shaped, l-shaped, T-shaped, or irregularly-shaped.
- the general shape of the abso ⁇ ent assembly 42 may correspond to the shape of the undergarment
- the undergarment 20 may include a relatively short abso ⁇ ent assembly and separate liquid handling layers in the waist regions (not shown) as disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 08/515,505 titled "Absorbent Article Having Improved Waist Region Dryness And Method Of Manufacture” and filed August 15, 1995 by L. LeMahieu et al. (Attorney Docket No. 12,248) and assigned to the assignee of the present application.
- the undergarment 20 also includes leg elastic members 46 (Fig. 7) to draw and hold the side margins 38 of the undergarment 20 against the legs of the wearer and form a seal therewith.
- leg elastic members 46 Fig. 7
- the elongated leg elastic members 46 are longitudinally orientated in each side margin 38, extending toward the front and back end edges 26 and 27.
- the leg elastic members 46 are positioned in the illustrated embodiment between the moisture barrier 40 and the bodyside liner 44.
- the leg elastic members 46 are attached in a stretched condition to the moisture barrier 40, the bodyside liner 44, or both, in either a straight or a curved shape.
- the leg elastic members 46 may be attached in a relaxed state to a gathered portion of the moisture barrier 40, the bodyside liner 44, or both.
- the leg elastic members 46 may be formed of a dry-spun coalesced multifilament elastomeric thread sold under the tradename LYCRA and available from E.I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company. Alternately, the elastic members may be formed of other typical elastics utilized in the undergarment-making art, such as a thin ribbon of natural rubber, a stretch bonded laminate material comprising a prestretched elastic meltblown inner layer sandwiched between and bonded to a pair of spunbond polypropylene nonwoven webs, or the like. Elasticity could also be imparted to the abso ⁇ ent articie by extruding a hot melt elastomeric adhesive between the moisture barrier 40 and the liner 44. Other suitable elastic gathering means are disclosed in U.S. Patents 4,938,754 to Mesek and 4,388,075 to Mesek et al.
- the attachment system in the illustrated embodiment includes a pair of strap members 50 that are releasably attached to the front and back waist regions 30 and 32 to support the undergarment 20 about the body of the wearer. Attachment systems of this general type are disclosed in U.S. Patent B1 4,315,508 to Bolick, which is inco ⁇ orated herein by reference.
- the present fastening system which is designed to releasably attach the strap members 50 to the undergarment 20 with a minimum number of pop-offs during use, will now be described in greater detail.
- the illustrated fastening system includes a plurality of first and second interiocking fastening components 52 and 54 that are adapted to refastenably connect to one another.
- the first interlocking fastening components 52 consist of four separate elements bonded to the moisture barrier 40
- the second interlocking fastening components 54 consist of four separate elements bonded to the two strap members 50.
- the interlocking fastening components 52 and 54 have surfaces that are refastenably connectable.
- refastenably connectable and variations thereof are used herein to mean that the surfaces are adapted to repeatedly, releasably engage one another.
- one surface of each of the interlocking fastening components 52 and 54 comprises a plurality of engaging elements that project from that surface.
- the engaging elements of one interlocking fastening component 52 or 54 are adapted to repeatedly engage and disengage the engaging elements of the other interiocking fastening component.
- Suitable engaging elements for such interiocking materials include self-engaging geometric shaped materials, such as hooks, loops, bulbs, mushrooms, arrowheads, balls on stems, male and female mating components, or the like.
- the term releasably engaged and variations thereof refer to two elements being connected or connectable such that the elements tend to remain connected absent a separation force applied to one or both of the elements, and the elements being capable of separation without substantial permanent deformation or rupture.
- the engagement of the components 52 and 54 is accomplished mechanically rather than adhesively, and the components are adapted to resist disengagement in a shear mode yet release relatively easy from one another in a peel mode.
- the shear mode of a fastener release refers to forces tending to separate the mechanical interlocking fastening components (such as a hook-and-loop material) when the components are subjected to opposing forces in the plane of attachment of the components
- the peel mode of a fastener release refers to forces tending to separate the mechanical interlocking fastening components when one component is subjected to a force pe ⁇ endicular to the plane of attachment of the components.
- the term force includes a physical influence exerted by one body on another which produces acceleration of bodies that are free to move and deformation of bodies that are not free to move.
- the first interiocking fastening components 52 are formed of a loop material and will also be referred to as loop fasteners 52
- the second interlocking fastening component 54 are formed of a hook material and will also be referred to as hook fasteners 54.
- These fasteners 52 and 54 comprise the complementary, mating components of a hook-and-loop fastening system.
- loop material is intended to mean any fabric having a base or backing structure and a plurality of loop members extending upwardly from at least one surface of the backing structure.
- An illustrative loop material 60 is representatively shown in Fig. 8.
- the loop material 60 is a flexible fabric material having opposite major surfaces designated first major surface 61 and second major surface 62.
- the loop material 60 comprises yams 64 that are arranged to provide a raised loop construction in which the fabric is stabilized so that engaging elements, that is loops 66, are erect from the fabric backing 68.
- the term flexible refers to materials which are compliant and which will readily conform to the general shape and contours of the wearer's body.
- the loop material 60 may be formed of any suitable material, such as acrylic, nylon or polyester, and may be formed by methods such as wa ⁇ knitting, stitch bonding or needle punching.
- the loop material 60 can be stabilized through napping, thermosetting or the like so that the individual loops 66 are erect from the fabric base 68.
- the loop fasteners 52 can also be any suitable material having non-woven loops thereon.
- the loop material 60 may optionally include a sizing (not shown), such as a vinyl acetate copolymer sizing available from National Starch and Chemical Co ⁇ . under the trade designation RESYN 5904, applied by mist deposition or other suitable means to the backing 68 to a final concentration of less than about 4 weight percent.
- the first interiocking fastening components 52 are formed of a loop material 60 having a two bar wa ⁇ knit construction, with from 21 to 41 courses per inch (8-16 per cm.) and from 26 to 46 wales per inch (10-18 per cm ), of polyester yam.
- about 15-35 percent of the yams may be composed of yam having about 1-30 individual filaments therein and having a yam denier within the range of about 15-30 d (denier).
- about 65-85 percent of the yams may be composed of yam having about 1-30 individual filaments therein and having a yam denier within the range of about 20-55 d.
- the loops may particulariy be formed with a loop height from about 2 to about 2.5 millimeters.
- the loop caliper may be from about 5 0.010 to about 0.040 inch (0.25-1 mm.) and the basis weight may be from about 1.0 to about 3.0 ounces per square yard (34-102 grams per square meter).
- One particular loop material 60 which has been found suitable for the loop fasteners 52 is identified as No. 19902 and is available from Guilford Mills of Greensboro, North Carolina.
- the first interiocking fastening components or loop fasteners 52 are bonded to the surface of the moisture barrier 40 that is remote from the bodyside liner 44.
- Each of the loop fasteners 52 is rectangular, although the loop fasteners may altematively be square, round, oval, curved or otherwise nonrectangularly shaped.
- the loop fasteners 52 in each waist region 30 and 32 are desirably separated from one another and positioned adjacent the opposite sides edges 28. Desirably although not necessarily, the loop fasteners 52 are also spaced from the front and back end edges 26 and 27 and the side edges 28 by at least about 0.25 inch (6.5 mm.).
- the moisture barrier 40 there may be a greater number or a lesser number of loop fasteners 52 bonded to the moisture barrier 40 (not shown). Still additionally, the moisture barrier itself may be constructed of a interiocking material so that the strap members 50 may be attached directly to the moisture barrier (not shown).
- the loop fasteners 52 in the front and back waist regions 30 and 32 may be the same size and be symmetrically positioned. More desirably, however, it has been determined that the particular loop fasteners 52 disclosed herein provide adjustability for the attachment system and at the same time promote the proper orientation of the undergarment 20 on the wearer.
- the loop fasteners 52 are desirably attached at specified angles in relation to the longitudinal and transverse axes 22 and 24 of the undergarment 20 in order to promote a proper orientation of the garment on the wearer.
- the loop fasteners 52 in the front waist region 30 are desirably rectangular in shape measuring approximately 1.25 inches by 3.38 inches (3 by 9 cm.). Each loop fastener 52 in the front waist region 30 is bonded to the moisture barrier 40 such that the longitudinal axis of the fastener is directed generally toward the nearest comer of the undergarment 20 and forms an angle in the range of from about 25 to about 45 degrees with the transverse axis 24.
- the term longitudinal axis in reference to the fastener 52 is used to mean the axis parallel to the longer dimension of the fastener.
- Each loop fastener 52 in the back waist region 32 is desirably at least 1 inch by 1 inch (25 by 25 mm.), providing a surface area of at least about 1 in 2 (6.25 cm 2 ).
- the loop fasteners 52 in the back waist region 32 may be rectangular and measure 1.5 inch by 2.0 inch (38 by 51 mm.), with the longer dimension of the fastener aligned with the transverse axis 24 of the undergarment 20.
- the loop fasteners 52 in the back waist region 32 could be formed as a single pad of loop material attached across the back waist region 32 (not shown).
- the loop tip orientation of the loop fasteners 52 has been found to affect performance of the attachment system.
- the preferred loop material 60 will have a loop tip orientation (not shown) in a single direction.
- loop tip orientation refers to the general direction in which the tips of the loop members 66 are bent. This direction, which will be in the plane of the loop material, is caused by the napping process used to make the loop material.
- the loop tip orientation may be generated by other processes as well, such as brushing, scraping, nipping, rolling, pressing, differential crepeing, combing and so forth.
- the loop tip orientation of a loop material can be established by selecting appropriate manufacturing processes and equipment as known in the art.
- loop tip orientation of either loop fastener 52 in the back waist region 32 is desirably generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 22 of the undergarment 20 and directed toward the opposite or front end edge 26 of the undergarment.
- the loop tip orientation of either loop fastener 52 in the back waist region 32 could be generally parallel to the transverse axis 24 of the undergarment 20 and directed toward the other loop fastener 52 in the back waist region. Further arrangements of the loop fasteners are disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,386,595 to Kuen et al., which is inco ⁇ orated herein by reference.
- the loop fasteners 52 are bonded to the moisture barrier 40 with an adhesive substance.
- the adhesive substance may comprise any suitable adhesive such as a hot melt, or the like.
- the adhesive substance may comprise a styrene-isoprene-styrene rubber block copolymer based adhesive containing a rosin ester tackifying resin.
- One suitable adhesive is available
- the adhesive substance may include zones having different basis weights of adhesive or other beneficial arrangements as disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,476,702 to P. Datta et al., which is inco ⁇ orated herein by reference.
- the strap members 50 are each generally rectangular strips of material having opposite forward and rearward end portions 70 and 71.
- the strap members 50 are preferably formed of an elastic material, which is capable of stretching to approximately 2.8 to 3 times its relaxed length.
- the strap members 50 preferably have a longer length dimension of from about 6 inches to about 16 inches (15-
- each strap member 50 may be 11 inches (28 cm.) long and 1 inch (2.5 cm.) wide.
- the cut ends of the strap members 50 may be bonded by ultrasonic bonds, adhesives or other suitable means to prevent raveling.
- the second interiocking fastening components or hook fasteners 54 are attached at each end portion 70 and 71 of each strap member 50, on the same side of the strap member.
- the hook fasteners 54 desirably comprise a single-sided hook material and form the hook component of the hook-and-loop attachment system.
- hook material is intended to mean any fabric or material having a base or backing structure and a plurality of hook members extending upwardly from at least one surface of the backing structure.
- the second interiocking fasteners 54 advantageously comprise a resilient material to minimize unintentional disengagement of the fastener components as a result of the second interiocking fastening component becoming deformed and catching on clothing or other items.
- resilient refers to an interlocking material having a predetermined shape and the property of the interlocking material to resume the predetermined shape after being engaged and disengaged from a mating, complementary interiocking material.
- each hook fastener 54 comprises a backing structure 72 having a first major surface 74 and an opposite second major surface 76. A plurality of engaging elements in the form of hooks 78 project upwardly from the first major surface 74.
- Each hook fastener 54 has a primary meridian 80 parallel to the length dimension of the strap member 50 when laid flat and a secondary meridian 82 which intersects the primary meridian at a 90 degree angle (Fig. 3).
- the terms primary meridian and secondary meridian are used herein to refer to the curves defined by the intersection of the backing structure 72 and pe ⁇ endicular planes containing the longitudinal and transverse axis of the hook fastener 54.
- the primary and secondary meridians 80 and 82 are desirably nonlinear, but in particular embodiments one or the other may be linear.
- Opposite side edges 84 of the backing structure 72 extend generally parallel to the primary meridian 80 and opposite end edges 86 extend between the side edges.
- a central portion 87 of the backing structure 72 is disposed between the opposite side edges 84 and between the opposite end edges 86.
- the hook fasteners 54 may be of a variety of shapes, such as rectangular and measuring about 0.875 inch by about 1.125 inches (2.2 by 2.9 cm.). As best illustrated in
- each hook fastener 54 may include a grasping region 88 that is somewhat rounded and void of hooks.
- the grasping region 88 provides a convenient surface for grasping the hook fastener 54 to remove it from engagement with the loop fastener 52.
- the hook fasteners 54 may be positioned in full face-to-face contact with the strap members 50 (not shown), or positioned such that hook fasteners extend past the ends of the strap members (Figs. 1 - 4).
- the hook fasteners 54 may be attached to the strap members 50 by ultrasonic bonds, adhesives, stitches or other suitable means, and may include an attachment region 89 that is void of hooks.
- the hook fasteners may be positioned in full face-to-face contact with the strap members 50 (not shown), or positioned such that hook fasteners extend past the ends of the strap members (Figs. 1 - 4).
- the hook fasteners 54 may be attached to the strap members 50 by ultrasonic bonds, adhesives, stitches or other suitable means, and may include an attachment region 89 that is void of hooks.
- the 54 may be ultrasonically bonded to the strap members 50 during which process hooks present adjacent one end edge 86 are melted into the backing structure 72 to form the attachment region 89.
- Suitable hook material may be molded or extruded of nylon, polypropylene or another suitable material. Desirable stiffness levels of the hook material may be obtained from polymeric materials having a flexural modulus of about 70,000-120,000 pounds per square inch (4.83 x 10 8 - 8.27 x 10 8 nt/m 2 ) and a Shore hardness value within the range of about D-40 to D-80, such as D-61.
- the hook fasteners 54 desirably contain uni-directional hooks, with the machine direction of the hooks aligned with the primary meridian 80, and the hooks directed toward the opposite end portion 70 or 72 of the strap member 50.
- One suitable single-sided hook material for the hook fasteners 54 is available from Velcro Industries B.V., Amsterdam, Netherlands or affiliates thereof, and is identified as HTH-840 with 22 Series hooks in a uni-directional hook pattern.
- the shape, density and polymer composition of the hooks may be selected to obtain the desired peel and shear force resistance values between the hook fasteners 54 and the loop fasteners 52.
- a more aggressive hook material may comprise a material with a greater average hook height, a greater percentage of directionally-aligned hooks, or a more aggressive hook shape.
- the density of the hook members may be more than 50 hooks per square inch (8 per square cm.), and more particularly within the range of about 440 to about 1040 hooks per square inch (68-161 per square cm.), such as about 740 hooks per square inch (115 per square cm.).
- the row density may be within the range of about 20 to about 60 rows per linear inch of width (8-24 per linear cm.), such as about 40 rows per linear inch of width (16 per linear cm ).
- the hook members may be hook-shaped, mushroom-shaped, arrow-shaped or any other desired shape.
- the backing structures 72 are desirably formed or treated so that the second interiocking fastening components 54 have a concave shape, viewed with respect to the major surface 74 that includes the engaging elements 78.
- the term concave is used herein to mean curved like the inner surface of a sphere, and is used to relate to either a line or surface.
- a backing structure 72 may be concave in the direction of only one of the primary or secondary meridians 80 or 82 or concave in the direction of both the primary and secondary meridians.
- the degree of curvature or concavity of the second interiocking fastening components 54 may be characterized in terms of a bending index.
- the term bending index refers to a measurement of the curvature of the first major surface 74 of the backing structure 72.
- the bending index is the inverse of the radius of curvature of the first major surface 74.
- One suitable method for measuring the radius of curvature of the first major surface 74 is set forth in greater detail below in connection with the examples.
- the formula for the bending index is as shown below:
- the first major surface 74 of the backing structure 72 is concave with a bending index of at least 0.3 inch '1 (0.12 cm "1 )
- the concavity may be in the direction of the primary meridian 80 as illustrated in Figs. 3 and 4.
- the backing structure 72 is said to be concave in the direction of the primary meridian 80 when the backing structure is curved about an axis that is generally parallel to the secondary meridian 82.
- the backing structure 72 may be concave in the direction of the secondary meridian 82 as illustrated in Fig. 6, whereby the backing structure is curved about an axis that is generally parallel to the primary meridian 80.
- the backing structure 72 may be concave in the direction of both the primary meridian 80 and the secondary meridian 82, in which case the first major surface 74 is three-dimensionally concave.
- One advantage of forming the backing structure 72 so that it is concave in the direction of the secondary meridian 82 is that the user can more easily get a finger or fingernail under the fastening component to disengage the fastener.
- the bending index of the first major surface 74 may be from 0.3 to about 1.1 inch '1 (0.12 - 0.43 cm “1 ). More particulariy, the bending index of the first major surface 74 is desirably at least about 0.5 inch “1 (0.2 cm “1 ), such as about 0.5 to about 1.1 inch "1 (0.2 - 0.43 cm '1 ). In one desirable embodiment of the invention, the first major surface 74 is concave with a bending index in the direction of the primary meridian 80 of at least about 0.5 inch '1 (0.2 cm '1 ) and a bending index in the direction of the secondary meridian 82 of at least about 0.5 inch "1 (0.2 cm '1 ).
- the first major surface 74 is concave with a bending index in the direction of the primary meridian 80 of at least about 0.6 inch '1 (0.24 cm “1 ) and a bending index in the direction of the secondary meridian 82 of at least about 1 inch "1 (0.4 cm “1 ).
- the degree of curvature or concavity of the second interiocking fastening components 54 may altematively be characterized in terms of the elevation of the central portion 87 of the backing structure 72.
- the elevation may be determined by selecting three points that lie in a reference meridian of the backing structure 72, which reference meridian is parallel to either the primary meridian 80 or the secondary meridian 82.
- the three points that are selected from the reference meridian are (1) a first endpoint, (2) an
- the elevation of the central portion 87 of the backing structure 72 is the length of a pe ⁇ endicular line segment extending from the intermediate point to a reference plane containing the first and second endpoints.
- the reference meridian selected is generally parallel to the primary meridian.
- the first and second endpoints may correspond to the opposite end edges 86 of the backing structure 72 or peripheral points inward thereof.
- the reference meridian selected is generally parallel to the secondary meridian.
- the first and second endpoints may correspond to the opposite side edges 84 of the backing structure 72 or peripheral points inward thereof.
- the concave first major surface 74 of the backing structure 72 is shaped such that the central portion 87 is elevated by at least about 1.0 millimeter from a plane containing opposite, outwardly positioned peripheral points.
- the central portion 87 is elevated by at least about 1.0 millimeter from the opposite side edges 84, or from the opposite end edges 86, or from both the side and the end edges.
- the central portion 87 may be elevated by about 1.0 to about 2.0 millimeters from a plane containing the opposite edges 84 or 86.
- the central portion 87 is elevated by at least about 1.5 millimeters, such as about 1.5 to about 2.0 millimeters, from the opposite side edges 84, or from the opposite end edges 86, or from both the side and the end edges.
- the terms inward and outward refer to positions relative to the center of the backing structure 72, and particulariy transversely and/or longitudinally closer to or away from the longitudinal and transverse center of the backing structure.
- the elevation of the central portion 87 of the backing structure 72 in relation to the direction of either the primary meridian 80 or the secondary meridian 82 will vary depending on the reference locations selected. In particular embodiments, the side and end edges 84 and 86 may be used as the reference locations.
- the elevation of the central portion 87 of an individual fastening component 54 is determined by selecting the reference locations that provide the greatest elevation value. Further, the elevation value of a fastening component 54 as employed for pu ⁇ oses of the present invention should be based on the average value obtained from 10 randomly-selected fastening components of the same type. Of course, the curvature of the second interlocking fastening component 54 is measured when the fastener is not attached to another interiocking material.
- the backing structure 72 is desirably constructed to enhance the ability of the second interiocking fastening component 54 to retain a concave configuration after repeated uses. Specifically, the backing structure 72 is desirably constructed so as to retain a bending index of at least about 0.3 inch '1 , or a central elevation of at least about 1.0 millimeter, after 15 attachment and detachment cycles of the fastening components 52 and 54. Suitable fastening components 54 that have retained this degree of curvature have been constructed of polypropylene or nylon.
- composition of the backing structure 72 could be modified by imparting sterically hindered functional groups such as phthalic acid or the like, thereby forming polyesters or the like, for example polymers identified by the tradenames MYLAR and KEVLAR available from E.I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company, of Wilmington, Delaware, and NOMEX available from A. Meyers & Sons Co ⁇ ., of New York, New York.
- sterically hindered functional groups such as phthalic acid or the like
- NOMEX available from A. Meyers & Sons Co ⁇ ., of New York, New York.
- the backing structure could be modified by imparting sterically hindered functional groups such as phthalic acid or the like, thereby forming polyesters or the like, for example polymers identified by the tradenames MYLAR and KEVLAR available from E.I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company, of Wilmington, Delaware, and NOMEX available from A. Meyers & Sons Co ⁇ ., of New York, New York.
- the backing structure 72 comprises a molded material, for example one that is cast from softened polymeric resins. Further, the backing structure 72 also suitably possesses an average Guriey stiffness of at least about 250 milligrams and less than about 3000 milligrams. Additionally, while the thickness of the backing structure 72 may vary considerably, it is generally desirable for the backing structure to have a thickness of from about 0.1 to about 0.5 millimeters. A shape retention test for determining the ability of a backing structure 72 to retain its shape is described below in relation to specific examples.
- the undergarment 20 is positioned on the body of the wearer and secured in position using the attachment system.
- the wearer can engage one hook fastener 54 of each strap member 50 with one of the loop fasteners 52 in the back waist region 32. After stretching or relaxing the strap members 50 to obtain the desired tension therein, the wearer can then engage the opposite hook fasteners 54 of each strap member 50 with one of the corresponding loop fasteners 52 in the front waist region 30.
- the angled orientation of the loop fasteners 52 prompts the wearer to secure the hook fasteners 54 so that the strap members 50 are aligned with the longitudinal axis of the front loop fasteners 52, beneficially causing the strap members to be positioned toward the hips of the wearer.
- the concavity of the resilient hook fastening components 54 minimizes the likelihood that those components will pop-off when clothing is put on or removed. Instead of projecting away from the body of the wearer, the edges and comers of the resilient, contoured hook fasteners 54 penetrate deeply into the mating interiocking materials. This ensures that clothing or other materials passing over the hook fasteners 54 are less likely to snag on protruding edges and comers. This feature of the present invention is particulariy significant because unde ⁇ ants or other clothing may be pulled on or taken off numerous times while the undergarment 20 is being worn. Desirably, the resilient backing structure 72 is adapted to retain its concave shape for at least 15 attachment and detachment cycles of the interlocking fastening components, so that the improved resistance to pop-offs is sustained during multiple uses.
- the diaper 100 includes a moisture barrier 40, a bodyside liner 44, and an abso ⁇ ent assembly 42 disposed between the moisture barrier and bodyside liner.
- the diaper 100 may optionally contain waist elastics 102 and leg elastics 104.
- the diaper 100 also comprises fastening tabs 106 having a manufacturer's bond end 108 bonded to the diaper and a user's end 110 adapted to secure the diaper about the waist of the wearer.
- a first interiocking fastening component such as loop fastener 52 is bonded to the moisture barrier 40 in the waist region opposite the fastening tabs 106.
- the user's end 110 refers to the portion of the fastening tab 106 that is used by the consumer to fasten the diaper about the waist of the wearer.
- the user's end 110 comprises an interiocking fastening component such as the hook fastener 54 illustrated in Fig. 9 that is adapted to refastenably attach to the loop fastener 52.
- the hook fastener 54 illustrated in Fig. 9 is adapted to refastenably attach to the loop fastener 52.
- fastener 54 is desirably formed with a concave curvature in the direction of its primary meridian, in the direction of its secondary meridian, or both, as described above in relation to Figs. 1 - 6.
- concave interlocking fastening components 54 having the above- described properties may be used with a variety of disposable abso ⁇ ent products.
- diaper configurations for instance, are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 08/168,615 by T. Roessler et al., filed December 16, 1993, and titled “Dynamic Fitting Diaper” (Attorney Docket No. 10,961); and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 08/168,615 by E. D. Johnson et al., filed August 12, 1994, and titled "Diaper With
- the concave interiocking fastening components 54 may also be employed on abso ⁇ ent articles that use a belt or single strap system (not shown). Examples of fitted brief configurations are disclosed in U.S. Patent 4,500,316 to Damico.
- the concave second interlocking fastening components 54 may be formed originally in a concave configuration or formed originally in a generally flat shape and later formed in a concave configuration.
- One aspect of the present invention relates to the method of forming the first major surface 74 of the backing structure 72 of the second interiocking fastening component 54 into a concave configuration.
- the method of forming the first major surface 74 with a concave configuration employs an aluminum block with a depression formed in one surface.
- the depression may be created with a grinder that is rotated to provide a three-dimensional depression having a diameter of about 4.5 inches (11.4 cm).
- the aluminum block is heated to approximately the softening point of the thermoplastic backing structure 72.
- thermoplastic describes a material that softens when exposed to heat and which substantially returns to a nonsoftened condition when cooled to room temperature.
- the backing structure is placed against the heated aluminum block with the engaging elements 78 disposed away from the block.
- the backing structure is maintained against the block for a dwell time that enables the particular backing structure 72 to assume the shape of the depression.
- the backing structure 72 is then slowly lifted from the heated block and allowed to cool
- the backing structure 72 comprises a polypropylene structure
- the block is heated to approximately 308 degrees Fahrenheit (153 °C)
- the dwell time is about 4 to 5 seconds.
- the backing structure 72 may comprise a molded material that is formed initially in a concave configuration or processed immediately after formation into a concave configuration.
- a simulation test was conducted to compare under simulated use conditions the operation of strap members with concave hook fasteners to strap members with generally flat hook fasteners.
- the strap members were tested in a laboratory with identical undergarments 20 having the general configuration as shown in Fig. 7.
- the strap members 50 with concave hook fasteners 54 are referred to as Example A Straps, and the strap members with generally flat hook fasteners are designated Control A Straps.
- the undergarments 20 used in this test included a moisture barrier 40 which comprised an adhesive laminate of a polyethylene film inner layer and a spunbond nonwoven outer layer.
- An absorbent assembly 42 was disposed on the moisture barrier 40 and a spunbond polypropylene bodyside liner 44 was disposed on the absorbent assembly.
- the bodyside liner 44, absorbent assembly 42 and moisture barrier 40 were bonded together using a construction adhesive.
- the undergarments also included leg elastic members 46 secured along the two side margins 38 of the garment.
- the fastening system for the undergarments included four first interlocking fastening components in the form of loop fasteners 52 bonded to the moisture barrier 40 with a hot melt adhesive.
- the loop fasteners 52 comprised a tricot wa ⁇ knit, brushed (napped) polyester yam fabric purchased from Guilford Mills (No. 33517).
- a vinyl acetate copolymer sizing (RESYN 5904 from National Starch and Chemical Co ⁇ .) had been mist deposited on the back face of the loop material prior to heat treatment to obtain a final concentration of less than about 4 weight percent.
- the two loop fasteners 52 in the front waist region 30 measured 1.25 by 3.37 inches (3.18 by 8.56 cm) and were positioned to form an angle of about 33 degrees with the transverse axis.
- the two loop fasteners 52 in the back waist region 32 measured 1.5 by 2.0 inches (3.8 by 5.1 cm) and were aligned with the transverse axis 24 of the garment.
- the Control A Straps included two elastic strap members 50 formed of an elastic material purchased from Shelby Elastics of Shelby, North Carolina, USA.
- Straps had a length of about 10.5 inches (26 cm.) and a width of about 1 inch (2.5 cm.).
- the strap ends were ultrasonically bonded to prevent raveling.
- the second interlocking fastening components were in the form of hook fasteners 54 bonded at the ends of the strap members 50.
- the hook material was purchased from Velcro USA and identified as No. HTH-840 including 22 Series hooks.
- the hook fasteners 54 measured 0.876 by
- Each hook fastener 54 had three rows of hooks at a free end ultrasonically deformed to form a grasping region 88.
- the hook fasteners 54 were ultrasonically bonded to the strap members 50.
- Ten of the hook fasteners of the Control A Straps were measured according to the bending index procedure set forth below and found to have an average bending index of -0.098 inch '1 (-0.039 cm "1 ) in the direction of the primary meridian 80. No measurement of bending index in the direction of the secondary meridian was made.
- the Example A Straps were identical to the Control A Straps with the exception of the hook fasteners 54.
- the hook fasteners 54 of the Example A Straps were modified to have a concave configuration toward the first major surface 74.
- Each of these hook fasteners was heated to 308 degrees Fahrenheit (153 °C) and pressed against a mold surface for 5 seconds.
- the mold surface had the curvature of an approximately 3.25 inch (8.3 cm) diameter sphere.
- Ten of the hook fasteners of the Example A Straps were measured according to the bending index procedure set forth below and found to have an average bending index of 0.684 inch "1 (0.269 cm '1 ) in the direction of the primary meridian 80. No measurement of bending index in the direction of the secondary meridian was made.
- This test used 10 male and 10 female participants. Each participant wore 16 undergarments with one pair of Example A Straps and 16 undergarments with one pair of Control A Straps. After donning each undergarment with a pair of strap members, each participant put on their clothing, walked about, and then sat in a chair, all in a span of less than about two minutes. Thereafter, each participant stood and pulled their clothing and the undergarment down to the knees and back up over the hips without unfastening the strap members. The lowering and raising cycle was repeated for a total of eight cycles for each undergarment. The undergarment was then removed and the complete procedure repeated with a new undergarment and the same strap members, until each pair of the strap members was tested with 16 undergarments.
- a bench test was conducted to evaluate various resilient interiocking fastening components 54 with different degrees of curvature.
- the test was designed to simulate use conditions in a laboratory environment without products being worn.
- an undergarment 20 and a strap member 50 were placed in an apparatus 130 with one hook fastener 54 of the strap member 50 engaged with one loop fastener 52 of the undergarment.
- the undergarment was the same as that described above in relation to the simulation test of the Example A Straps and the Control A Straps. In general, this test moved an elastic waistband of an unde ⁇ ant over the hook fastener 54 to simulate clothing being applied over the undergarment.
- test apparatus 130 included a frame
- the frame 132 comprised a wood structure having a length of 36 inches (91.4 cm), a width of 2.75 inches (7 cm), and a thickness of 0.75 inch (1.9 cm).
- the frame 132 can be secured to a workspace by clamps or other suitable means (not shown).
- the formed block 134 was comprised of plaster of Paris and had one cast surface 140 which was shaped to approximate the female torso.
- the cast surface 140 was formed from a clay mold of the plastic mannequin 21 illustrated in Fig. 1, in the region where the loop fastener 52 of an undergarment 20 would be placed.
- the formed block 134 had a length of 3.5 inches (8.9 cm), a width of 3 inches (7.6 cm), and a varying thickness of about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm).
- the block 134 was positioned on the frame 132 so that cast surface 140 was directed away from the frame and the length dimension of the block was aligned with the length dimension of the frame.
- the block 134 was oriented so that the comer of the undergarment which is positioned on the cast surface 140 approximates the shape that would be encountered if the undergarment were placed on the mannequin 21.
- the block 134 was located 11.5 inches (29.2 cm) from a first end of the frame 132 and 6.5 inches
- the paper clamps 136 were mounted on the frame 132 by the fasteners 138. One of the clamps 136 was spaced 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) from the formed block 134 and the other clamp 136 was spaced 14.5 inches (36.8 cm) from the formed block. Suitable paper clamps 136 are 2 inches (5.1 cm) wide and available under the trade designation Binder Clips #10100 Large from GLL Co ⁇ oration of Caristadt, New Jersey.
- the fasteners 138 may comprise screws and washers as illustrated or other suitable means.
- the strap members were evaluated by placing an undergarment 20 on the frame
- the undergarment 20 was positioned so that the bodyside liner 44 of the undergarment 20 was disposed toward the cast surface 140 and a loop fastener 52 was directly over the cast surface 140.
- the spacing of the paper clamps 136 may need to be adjusted for different size garments.
- one approach is to position one product in one clamp and an identical product in the other clamp.
- a hook fastener 54 from the strap member 50 was placed on the loop fastener 52 that was positioned over the cast surface 140.
- the interiocking fastening components 52 and 54 were pressed together.
- the elastic strap member 50 was stretched to approximately 2 pounds (907 grams) of force and clamped in that extended condition in the other paper clamp 136.
- the hook fastener 54 was disengaged from the loop fastener 52 by pulling on the grasping region 88 (Fig. 3) or distal end of the hook fastener. The hook fastener 54 was then reattached to the loop fastener 52. This disengagement and reattachment cycle was repeated two more times, for a total of three cycles.
- Suitable unde ⁇ ants for use in the present test include ladies briefs size 6 cotton underwear identified under the tradename FRUIT OF THE LOOM by Fruit of the Loom, Inc. of Chicago, Illinois, or similarly constructed unde ⁇ ants.
- the tester grasped the elastic waistband of the unde ⁇ ants at two locations about four inches apart.
- the tester elongated the waistband by approximately 50 percent to a length between the two locations of about six inches.
- the waistband was placed on the undergarment 20 with the waistband making an angle of about 45 degrees with the length dimension of the strap member 50, when viewed from above.
- the hands of the tester were positioned about even with the top surface of the frame 132.
- the hands of the tester were then moved horizontally back and forth in a direction that is pe ⁇ endicular to the length dimension of the strap member 50, so that the waistband of the unde ⁇ ants was moved onto and then off the hook fastener 54.
- the Control B Straps included second interiocking fastening components 54 that comprised a backing structure 72 formed of a polypropylene resin available from Ferro
- the average bending index of the second interiocking fastening components 54 was determined to be -0.019 inch '1 (-0.007 cm "1 ) in the direction of the primary meridian 80.
- the bending index was based on an examination of 6 images of the side edges 84 of 6 second interiocking fastening components 54. No measurement of bending index in the direction of the secondary meridian was made.
- the Example B1 Straps included second interiocking fastening components 54 that comprised a backing structure 72 formed of the PF-7823 polypropylene resin available from Ferro Co ⁇ oration and having an average thickness of about 0.2 millimeters (8 mil).
- the average bending index of the second interlocking fastening components 54 was determined to be 0.316 inch '1 (0.124 cm '1 ) in the direction of the primary meridian 80 and 0.163 inch '1 (0.064 cm '1 ) in the direction of the secondary meridian. The bending index was based on an examination of 8 images of the side and end edges 84 and 86 of 8 second interiocking fastening components 54.
- the Example B2 Straps included second interiocking fastening components 54 that comprised a backing structure 72 formed of the PF-7823 polypropylene resin available from Ferro Co ⁇ oration and having an average thickness of about 0.2 millimeters (8 mil).
- the average bending index of the second interlocking fastening components 54 was determined to be 0.52 inch '1 (0.205 cm '1 ) in the direction of the primary meridian 80 and 0.304 inch '1 (0.120 cm "1 ) in the direction of the secondary meridian.
- the bending index in the direction of the primary meridian was based on an examination of 9 images of the side edges 84 of 9 second interlocking fastening components 54
- the bending index in the direction of the secondary meridian was based on an examination of 8 images of the end edges 86 of 8 second interlocking fastening components.
- the Example B3 Straps included second interiocking fastening components 54 that comprised a backing structure 72 formed of the PF-7823 polypropylene resin available from Ferro Co ⁇ oration and having an average thickness of about 0.2 millimeters (8 mil).
- the average bending index of the second interiocking fastening components 54 was determined to be 0.649 inch '1 (0.256 cm '1 ) in the direction of the primary meridian 80 and 1.08 inch '1 (0.425 cm "1 ) in the direction of the secondary meridian. In calculating the bending index in the direction of the secondary meridian, one remote data point was not included. Thus, the bending index in the direction of the primary meridian was based on an examination of 10 images of the side edges 84 of 10 second interiocking fastening components 54, and the bending index in the direction of the secondary meridian was based on an examination of 9 images of the end edges 86 of 9 second interiocking fastening components.
- the second interlocking fastening components 54 of Example Straps B1 , B2 and B3 were made by contact with a heated block having a particular depression to receive the backing structure 72 of the fastening component.
- a plaster of Paris mold of the depression of each of the blocks was made and the bending index of the mold surface was measured.
- the mold of the depression used to make the Example B1 Straps had a bending index of 0.43 inch "1 (0.169 cm “1 ) in the direction of the fastener's primary meridian and 0.29 inch "1 (0.114 cm '1 ) in the direction of the fastener's secondary meridian.
- the mold of the depression used to make the Example B2 Straps had a bending index of 0.59 inch “1 (0.232 cm “1 ) in the direction of the fastener's primary meridian and 0.57 inch '1 (0.224 cm “1 ) in the direction of the fastener's secondary meridian.
- the mold of the depression used to make the Example B3 Straps had a bending index of 0.61 inch '1 (0.24 cm '1 ) in the direction of the fastener's primary meridian and 0.58 inch '1 (0.228 cm '1 ) in the direction of the fastener's secondary meridian.
- a shape retention test was developed to evaluate the ability of a second interiocking fastening component 54 to maintain a concave configuration during simulated use conditions.
- the test utilized an undergarment 20 of the type described above in relation to the test of Control A Straps, the apparatus 130 illustrated in Figs. 10 and 11 , and various strap members 50. s ⁇ i For each test of a particular type of strap member 50, the bending index of a second interiocking fastening component 54 of the strap member 50 is determined and recorded. Then, an undergarment 20 is positioned on the apparatus 130 as described in the above bench test, and the strap members are attached to the first interlocking fastening components 52.
- the second interiocking fastening component 54 for which the bending index was determined is then detached from the first interiocking fastening component 52 by pulling on the grasping region 88 or distal end of the second fastening component.
- This attachment and detachment of the second interiocking fastening component 54 for which the bending index was measured from a first interlocking fastening component 52 constitutes a single attachment and detachment cycle. This cycle is repeated for a total of 15 cycles. After 15 cycles, the bending index of the same second interiocking fastening component 54 is again determined and recorded.
- the strap members 50 that were evaluated by the shape retention test were designated Control C Straps, Example Straps C1 and C2, Control D Straps, and Example Straps D1 , D2 and D3. Each of these strap members 50 is described below.
- the Control C Straps included second interiocking fastening components 54 that comprised a backing structure 72 formed of the PF-7823 polypropylene resin available from Ferro Co ⁇ oration and having an average thickness of about 0.2 millimeters (8 mil).
- the average bending index of 6 of the second interiocking fastening components 54 was determined before the 15 attachment and detachment cycles to be 0.766 inch '1 (0.302 cm '1 ), based on an examination of 6 photocopy images of the side edges 84 of the 6 second interiocking fastening components 54.
- the average bending index of the same 6 fastening components 54 was determined after the 15 attachment and detachment cycles to be 0.633 inch '1 (0.249 cm '1 ), based again on an examination of 6 photocopy images of the side edges 84 of the 6 second interiocking fastening components 54.
- the Example C1 Straps included second interlocking fastening components 54 that comprised a backing structure 72 formed of the PF-7823 polypropylene resin available from Ferro Co ⁇ oration and having an average thickness of 0.168 millimeters (6.7 mil).
- the average bending index of 6 of the second interlocking fastening components 54 was determined before the 15 attachment and detachment cycles to be 0.420 inch "1 (0.165 cm "1 ), based on an examination of 6 photocopy images of the side edges 84 of the 6 second interiocking fastening components 54.
- the average bending index of the same 6 fastening components 54 was determined after the 15 attachment and detachment cycles to be 0.086 inch "1 (0.034 cm "1 ), based again on an examination of 6 photocopy images of the side edges 84 of the 6 second interiocking fastening components 54.
- the average bending index of 0.086 inch '1 included 2 negative values, indicating instances of a convex shape after testing.
- the Example C2 Straps included second interiocking fastening components 54 that comprised a backing structure 72 formed of the PF-7823 polypropylene resin available from Ferro Corporation and having an average thickness of 0.135 millimeters (5.3 mil).
- the average bending index of 6 of the second interiocking fastening components 54 was determined before the 15 attachment and detachment cycles to be 0.370 inch '1 (0.146 cm “1 ), based on an examination of 6 photocopy images of the side edges 84 of the 6 second interiocking fastening components 54.
- the average bending index of the same 6 fastening components 54 was determined after the 15 attachment and detachment cycles to be 0.393 inch '1 (0.153 cm '1 ), based again on an examination of 6 photocopy images of the side edges 84 of the 6 second interlocking fastening components 54.
- the average bending index of 0.393 inch '1 included 1 negative value, indicating an instance of a convex shape after testing.
- the Control D Straps included second interiocking fastening components 54 that comprised a backing structure 72 formed of the PF-7823 polypropylene resin available from Ferro Co ⁇ oration and having an average thickness of 0.198 millimeters (7.8 mil).
- the average bending index of 10 of the second interlocking fastening components 54 was determined before the 15 attachment and detachment cycles to be 0.597 inch '1
- the Example D1 Straps included second interiocking fastening components 54 that comprised a backing structure 72 formed of the PF-7823 polypropylene resin available from Ferro Corporation and having an average thickness of 0.414 millimeters (16.3 mil).
- the average bending index of 10 of the second interiocking fastening components 54 was determined before the 15 attachment and detachment cycles to be 0.405 inch '1 (0.159 cm '1 ), based on an examination of 10 photocopy images of the side edges 84 of the 10 second interlocking fastening components 54.
- the average bending index of the same 10 fastening components 54 was determined after the 15 attachment and detachment cycles to be 0.325 inch '1 (0.128 cm '1 ), based again on an examination of 10 photocopy images of the side edges 84 of the 10 second interiocking fastening components 54.
- the Example D2 Straps included second interiocking fastening components 54 that comprised a backing structure 72 formed of the PF-7823 polypropylene resin available from Ferro Co ⁇ oration and having an average thickness of 0.495 millimeters (19.5 mil).
- the average bending index of 10 of the second interlocking fastening components 54 was determined before the 15 attachment and detachment cycles to be 0.453 inch '1 (0.178 cm *1 ), based on an examination of 10 photocopy images of the side edges 84 of the 10 second interiocking fastening components 54.
- the average bending index of 9 of these 10 fastening components 54 was determined after the 15 attachment and detachment cycles to be 0.434 inch "1 (0.017 cm "1 ), based again on an examination of 9 photocopy images of the side edges 84 of the 9 second interiocking fastening components 54.
- the Example D3 Straps included second interiocking fastening components 54 that comprised a backing structure 72 formed of the PF-7823 polypropylene resin available from Ferro Co ⁇ oration and having an average thickness of 0.340 millimeters (13.4 mil).
- the average bending index of 10 of the second interiocking fastening components 54 was determined before the 15 attachment and detachment cycles to be 0.554 inch "1 (0.218 cm '1 ), based on an examination of 10 photocopy images of the side edges 84 of the 10 second interiocking fastening components 54.
- the average bending index of the same 10 fastening components 54 was determined after the 15 attachment and detachment cycles to be 0.371 inch '1 (0.146 cm '1 ), based again on an examination of 10 photocopy images of the side edges 84 of the 10 second interiocking fastening components 54.
- a stiffness test was also used to determine the degree of stiffness of the second interlocking fastening components 54 of several of the Control and Example Straps.
- the stiffness of a backing structure 72 of a second interlocking fastening component 54 was determined using a Guriey stiffness test. The test measured the stiffness of a particular backing material prior to the material being imparted with any concave curvature. The stiffness values of the tested strap members are shown in Table 5 below. The stiffness values are averages reported in milligrams based on the indicated number of samples.
- a suitable technique for determining Guriey stiffness is set forth in TAPPI T543 PM-83.
- the dimensions of the sample employed for determining Guriey stiffness measured 1 inch (2.54 cm) in length and 0.5 inch (1.27 cm) in width.
- the bending index of a resilient interlocking fastening component 54 may be determined using the following bending index procedure.
- the procedure utilizes an Image Analysis System that is available under the trade designation QUANTIMET 970 with QUIPS Version 8.00 software from Leica/Cambridge Instruments of 111 Deer Lake Road, Deerfield, Illinois, USA.
- Other equipment used to determine the bending index of a specimen includes a video camera with a 50 mm El-Nikkor lens at f / 2.8; a 5 mm extension-tube; a black scanning electron microscope vice or other suitable clamps; a black photodrape cloth; an 8-bulb octagonal ring illuminator or several flood lamps; incident darkfield lighting; a KREONITE macroviewer available from J. Kelly Co ⁇ ., of Darien, Illinois, to support the camera, lens and illuminator; and white correction fluid, for example one available under the tradename LIQUID PAPER from The Gillette Company
- the strap member 50 is positioned in the scanning electron microscope vice so that the second interiocking fastening component 54 projects beyond the vice.
- the vice and strap member 50 are positioned above the photodrape cloth, and the fastening component is illuminated by the ring illuminator.
- the lens of the video camera is adjusted to provide an image of the fastening component, either at an edge of the backing structure 72, which generally provides the clearest image, or at a location inward of an edge.
- the image is input to the image analysis system and the control software program is initiated.
- a negative backing number (“BACKNUM”) is entered when prompted, meaning that the measured radius and bending index are negative values.
- COND 50 MM EL-NIKKOR; F/2.8, 5MM X-TUBE; 8-BULB
- Image Frame is Rectangle ( X: 360, Y: 61, W: 129, H: 596. ) Live Frame is Standard Live Frame
- CALC.C CALC + CALC.A 12.
- the bending index of a second interiocking fastening component 54 measured at an edge 84 or 86 of the backing structure 72 may be determined from a photocopy of the fastening component.
- the second interiocking fastening component 54 may be positioned on edge on a photocopy machine and copied.
- the resulting image can be analyzed in the image analysis system described above to determine the bending index at the edge of the fastening component.
- the bending index of other structures such as plaster of Paris casts of forming molds used to make the second interiocking fastening components 54, may also be analyzed using this image analysis system.
Abstract
Description
Claims
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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AU12828/97A AU1282897A (en) | 1995-12-27 | 1996-12-06 | Absorbent article fastening system and its method of manufacture |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US57939495A | 1995-12-27 | 1995-12-27 | |
US08/579,394 | 1995-12-27 |
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WO1997024098A1 true WO1997024098A1 (en) | 1997-07-10 |
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Family Applications (1)
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PCT/US1996/019473 WO1997024098A1 (en) | 1995-12-27 | 1996-12-06 | Absorbent article fastening system and its method of manufacture |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US5722968A (en) |
AR (2) | AR005265A1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU1282897A (en) |
CA (1) | CA2236533A1 (en) |
PE (1) | PE53498A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO1997024098A1 (en) |
ZA (1) | ZA9610142B (en) |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AR005265A1 (en) | 1999-04-28 |
ZA9610142B (en) | 1997-06-23 |
US5722968A (en) | 1998-03-03 |
PE53498A1 (en) | 1998-09-22 |
AU1282897A (en) | 1997-07-28 |
AR012150A2 (en) | 2000-09-27 |
CA2236533A1 (en) | 1997-07-10 |
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