A disposable absorbent article designed to facilitate an easy intuitive change

ES 2 397 785 T3

DESCRIPTION

Disposable absorbent article designed to facilitate easy intuitive changing

Field of the invention

This invention is directed to sanitary absorbent articles, such as diapers, diaper briefs, and the like. Especially, the invention is directed to disposable diapers designed to facilitate the process of fitting the diaper to the wearer.

Background of the invention

Absorbent articles are well known in the art. These articles typically have an absorbent core secured or positioned close to the body of a wearer during use by a restraint system to capture and absorb body exudates discharged by the wearer. Typically, absorbent articles include a wearer-facing topsheet that allows fluid exudates to pass through and a backsheet that prevents exudates from leaking out of the absorbent article.

Disposable absorbent items such as diapers are designed to absorb and contain bodily waste to prevent soiling of the wearer's body and clothing. Disposable diapers typically comprise a single design available in different sizes to fit different wearers ranging from newborns to toddlers and potty learners. The design of the diaper typically affects performance, such as the ability to absorb and contain body waste. Diaper size typically affects fit, for example, the size of the diaper waist opening, the size of the openings around the thighs, and the length or "parting" of the diaper.

Items that are worn externally on the wearer's body, such as diapers, are commonly not applied correctly due to awkward donning of the wearer or continual movement of the wearer when adjusting them. Such misapplication can result in uneven fit or gaps, leading to losses; and improperly placed components (such as fixatives), which can mark the wearer's skin and / or cause discomfort. This is especially true in caregivers who have to deal with uncooperative carriers, such as infants. Babies, even those very few days old, move their legs into awkward positions, wiggle from side to side, or even violently resist diaper changes by moving their hands and legs. Consequently, the caregiver often has to hold parts of the wearer's body in addition to the diaper during the changing process, which makes it very difficult to achieve correct diaper alignment for fit.

Attempts have been made in the art to improve the process of applying an absorbent article to the wearer such as using an external shift aid, as described in co-pending European Patent Application No. 01117671 filed July 26, 2001. The change aids described in that application are devices that assist in the application or removal of articles that are placed mainly outside the body of the wearer, particularly absorbent hygienic articles, such as diapers, articles for adult incontinence, feminine protection articles. , and the like. However, these external devices are not integrated into the absorbent article itself which requires the caregiver to purchase an additional device.

Therefore, there is a need for a disposable diaper that includes features that facilitate the process of changing diapers. Especially, there is a need for a diaper that has intuitive elements that facilitate changing by allowing a caregiver to get the correct fit on the wearer out of the box with minimal adjustment, if necessary. There is also a need for a diaper having versatile change elements that allow it to be fitted to a wearer while said wearer is standing or lying where in either case the diaper can be easily adjusted to the wearer without instructions.

Summary

The present invention provides a disposable absorbent article to be worn around the lower torso of a wearer that includes at least one useful marker that facilitates easy and intuitive change by aligning the article in relation to an anatomical feature of the wearer or in relation to a component of the wearer. article, and thus improves the fit and the corresponding claimed article. The article has at least one internally visible useful marker (80) aligned with a physical feature of the wearer while wearing it. The disposable absorbent article has a body-facing surface and a garment-facing surface; a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis; a first waist region with a first end edge, a second waist region with a second end edge, and a crotch region interposed in the middle. A pair of opposite longitudinal side edges join the first end edge and the second end edge. The disposable absorbent article includes a backsheet having a body-facing surface and a garment-facing surface, and a core disposed on the body-facing surface of the backsheet.

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The article of the invention has internally visible useful markings (80), which are located close to said longitudinal side edges and close to said first and second end edges to provide a contoured pattern that distinguishes the first waist region from the second waist region. the waist.

The disposable absorbent article may also include at least one externally visible useful marker disposed on portions of the disposable absorbent article near the first and second end edges. Externally visible useful markings distinguish the garment-facing surface portions of the article near the longitudinal side edges and parts of the article near the first and second end edges from a garment-facing surface portion of the article. close to an intersection of the longitudinal and transverse axes. In these embodiments, the externally visible signposts can provide a contoured design that complements the features of the absorbent article such as a shaped core, barrier leg pads, and / or a latch system. Embodiments of the disposable absorbent article include at least one externally visible useful sign disposed on portions of the disposable absorbent article near the longitudinal side edges in at least the crotch region.

In one embodiment, the disposable article includes a first ear panel disposed along each longitudinal ridge in the second waist region. Each first ear panel includes a body-facing surface and a garment-facing surface. At least a portion of each of the first lug panels includes at least one externally visible useful mark that complements the externally visible useful mark of the garment-facing surface of the article near the first and second end edges and / or close to the longitudinal side edges. For this embodiment, the disposable absorbent article includes a latch system to releasably secure the first waist region and the second waist region around the wearer's lower torso. During fitting, the at least one externally visible sign on the portion of each of the first ear panels is aligned with the externally visible sign near the first terminal edge to form a substantially aligned composite sign surrounding the wearer's waist. . At the same time, the at least one externally visible useful marking of the garment-facing surface of the article near the side edges forms substantially aligned composite markings surrounding the wearer's legs. The substantially aligned composite markings surrounding the wearer's waist and legs denote correct alignment and fit of the article around the wearer's hips and legs.

Alternative embodiments include at least one internally visible useful marker that can be observed on a portion of the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article facilitating alignment of the article, or components thereof, to the anatomical features of the wearer during fitting. In these embodiments, the disposable absorbent article may include an elasticized topsheet with an elongated slot-like opening disposed therein. The elasticized slot-like opening is provided to align with the wearer's anus and / or genitalia to receive fecal matter and / or urine therein. Internally visible helpful cues can be used to facilitate such alignment.

In another embodiment, the disposable absorbent article includes a latch system having primary and secondary positioning elements that are attached to flange elements during a first fit and a second fit respectively. The primary and secondary latches include visible markings that provide indicator markings that designate proper connections to the flange elements during the first fit and the second fit. The first adjustment provides a loose fit that allows the article to be manipulated around the wearer's lower torso during adjustment and the second adjustment provides a secure fit around the wearer's waist.

Brief description of the drawings

Although the specification concludes with claims which point out in particular and clearly claim the subject matter which is considered to constitute the present invention, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which the Like designations are used to designate substantially identical elements, and in which:

Figure 1 is a plan view of a disposable absorbent article in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 2a is a plan view of a disposable absorbent article in accordance with the present invention including externally visible useful indicia disposed on the garment-facing surface of the article.

Figure 2b is a three-dimensional front view of the disposable absorbent article shown in Figure 2a and showing the first waist region attached to the second waist region.

Figure 2c is a three-dimensional side view of the disposable absorbent article shown in Figure 2a and showing the first waist region attached to the second waist region.

Figure 2d is a three-dimensional rear view of the disposable absorbent article shown in Figure 2a and showing the first waist region attached to the second waist region.

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Figure 3 is a plan view of a disposable absorbent article in accordance with the present invention including externally visible helpful markings at the rear waist region that provide a contoured design.

Figure 4 is a plan view of a disposable absorbent article in accordance with the present invention including externally visible utility markings at the rear waist region providing a contoured design that complements the shape of the core.

Figure 5 is a plan view of the disposable absorbent article shown in Figure 2a and includes useful instructional signs that provide the caregiver with guidance or instructions regarding the tightness of the article's fit around the wearer.

Figure 6 is a plan view of the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article according to the present invention including internally visible useful indicia.

Figure 7 is a plan view of the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article in accordance with the present invention, including an internally visible useful sign that is both colored and three-dimensional.

Figure 8 shows the disposable absorbent article depicted in Figure 7 attaching it to a holder.

Figure 9 is a plan view of the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article according to the present invention including a foreshortened elastic topsheet and a slot-shaped opening with visible useful markings highlighting the first waist region of the article. with a smooth curved transition to the back.

Figure 10 is a plan view of the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article in accordance with the present invention including an elastic foreshortened topsheet and a slot-shaped opening with visible useful markings highlighting the crotch region of the article.

Figure 11 is a plan view of the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article according to the present invention including a foreshortened elastic topsheet and a slot-shaped opening with visible useful markings highlighting the crotch region of the article and the position of the slot-shaped opening.

Figure 12 is a plan view of the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article according to the present invention including a foreshortened elastic topsheet and a slot-shaped opening with visible useful markings highlighting the first waist region of the article. .

Figure 13 is a plan view of the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article shown in Figure 12 with visible helpful markings providing designs to create a smooth transition between the first waist region and the second waist region of the Article.

Figure 14 is a plan view of the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article according to the present invention including a foreshortened elastic topsheet and a slot-shaped opening with visible useful markings highlighting the slot area and an area Aim for urination in the first waist region.

Figure 15 is a plan view of the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article according to the present invention including an elastic foreshortened topsheet and a slot-shaped opening with visible useful markings comprising two different designs in which the design The exterior aids in the longitudinal positioning of the item and the interior design highlights the slot-shaped opening.

Figure 16 is a plan view of the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article according to the present invention including a foreshortened elastic topsheet and a slot-shaped opening with visible useful markings highlighting the first and second waist regions. and the target area of ​​the anus relative to the slot-shaped opening.

Figure 17 is a plan view of the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article according to the present invention including a foreshortened elastic topsheet and a slot-shaped opening with visible useful markings highlighting the elasticity and placement of the opening. slot-shaped.

Figure 18 is a plan view of the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article according to the present invention including a foreshortened elastic topsheet and a slot-shaped opening with visible useful markings highlighting the crotch area, the opening slot-shaped and a target area for urination in the first waist region.

Figure 19 is a plan view of a diaper including instructive helpful indicia on the first and second fastening system donning elements denoting a first fit and a second fit.

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Detailed description of the invention

Although this specification concludes with claims that especially highlight and clearly claim what is considered to be the invention, it is hoped that the invention may be more easily understood by reading the following detailed description of the invention and studying the drawings that follow. include.

The present invention provides a disposable absorbent article that is worn around the lower torso of a wearer and that includes at least one useful sign that facilitates easy and intuitive changing. The useful signal is arranged in distinguishable areas of the article and includes functions and / or characteristics that indicate to a caregiver and / or wearer how to achieve a correct fit. The wearable article may be applicable to disposable absorbent articles including diaper briefs, incontinent adult briefs, incontinent undergarments, disposable or durable diaper inserts or other garments and the like. One embodiment of an absorbent article of the present invention is a unitary disposable absorbent article, such as the disposable diaper 20, shown in Figure 1.

Definitions

As used herein, the following terms have the following meanings:

The term "absorbent article" refers to devices that absorb and contain liquid and, more specifically, refers to devices that are placed against or near the wearer's body to absorb and contain the various exudates discharged by the body.

"Longitudinal" is a direction that runs parallel to the maximum linear dimension of the article and includes directions within ± 45 ° of the longitudinal direction.

The "lateral" or "transverse" direction is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and is substantially in the plane of the article when the article is in a flat, extended position.

The "Z direction" is orthogonal to both the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction.

The "xy plane" refers to the plane congruent with the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction.

The term "disposable" is used herein to describe absorbent articles that are generally not intended to be laundered or otherwise recovered or reused as an absorbent article (that is, they are intended to be disposed of after a single use and, preferably, to be recycled, composted or otherwise disposed of in an environmentally compatible way).

In the present specification, the term "arranged" is used to indicate that one or more elements are formed (joined and placed) in a particular place or position as a unitary structure with other elements or as a separate element joined to another element.

As used herein, the term "attached" encompasses configurations where an element is attached directly to another element by attaching the element directly to the other element, and configurations where an element is indirectly attached to another element by attaching the element to one or more intermediate elements that , in turn, are attached to the other element.

A "unitary" absorbent article refers to absorbent articles that are formed of separate parts joined together to form a coordinated entity so that separate handling parts are not required, such as a separate carrier and liner.

As used herein, the term "diaper" refers to an absorbent article generally used by infants and incontinent persons around the lower torso.

As used herein, the term "complement" refers to filling in or completing, for example, by overlapping, matching, or aligning therewith; relating it contextually, or highlighting it.

As used herein, the term "body-facing surface" generally refers to a body-facing surface when fitted to a wearer.

As used herein, the term "garment-facing surface" generally refers to a surface-facing versus the body-facing surface when fitted to a wearer.

As used herein, the term "useful sign (s)" generally refers to distinctive markings, colored regions, patterns, and / or textures arranged on a disposable absorbent article to provide an attribute.

ES 2 397 785 T3 functional. Especially, the functional attribute includes providing a visual indication that facilitates easy and intuitive changing of the disposable absorbent article during fitting.

As used herein, the term "externally visible", as used in reference to a signal associated with an article, refers to the ability of the human observer to visually distinguish the signal with the naked eye (except for standard correction glasses adapted to compensate myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism) in normal light conditions from a reference point by viewing the garment-facing surface of the article while the article is held in a configuration where the garment-facing surface is within the field Of vision.

As used herein, the term "internally visible", as used in reference to a signal associated with an article, refers to the ability of the human observer to visually distinguish the signal with the naked eye (except for standard correction glasses adapted to compensate myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism) under normal light conditions from a reference point when viewing the body-facing surface of the article while the article is held in a configuration where the body-facing surface is within the field of view.

As used herein, "normal light conditions" refers to the light conditions in which human vision functions effectively (eg, the human eye can distinguish complex patterns, shadows, and colors). Specifically, for the purpose of describing this invention, normal lighting conditions are at least one of the following:

a) natural lighting such as that found outdoors during the day,

b) illumination of a standard 100 watt incandescent white light bulb at a distance of 2 meters, or

c) as defined by CIE D65 a standard illumination of 800 lux to a 1964 CIE standard observer.

As used herein, an "anatomical feature" of a wearer can include any externally distinguishable part of the wearer's anatomy specific to a certain definable region and / or function. Illustrative anatomical features of human bodies include, without limitation, waste exit ports such as the anus, genitalia, perineal region, gluteal groove, leg folds, navel, buttocks, hip, and / or or the pubic bones, thighs, rib cage, and the like.

Figure 1 is a plan view of diaper 20 in its extended, uncontracted state (i.e., without induced elastic contraction) with parts of the structure cut away to more clearly show the underlying structure of diaper 20 and with the part facing the diaper body 20 that comes into contact with the wearer facing the viewer. The diaper 20 includes a longitudinal axis 100 and a lateral or transverse axis 110, a first end edge 10 and a second end edge 12 connected by longitudinally extending side edges. A longitudinal side edge refers to an edge oriented ± 45 ° from the longitudinal axis 100 and includes rectilinear and curvilinear side edges. An end portion of the diaper 20 is configured as a first waist region 36 of the diaper 20. The opposite end portion is configured as a second waist region 38 of the diaper 20. An intermediate portion of the diaper 20 is configured as a crotch region 37 extending longitudinally between the first region 36 and the second waist region 38. . Waist regions 36 and 38 generally comprise those portions of diaper 20 which, when donned, surround the wearer's waist. Therefore, the first waist region 36 and the second waist region 38 are commonly referred to as the front waist region and the rear waist region respectively, to correspond to the orientation of the diaper 20 relative to the wearer's body during adjustment. The waist regions 36 and 38 may include elastic elements that cinch around the wearer's waist to provide a better fit and confinement. Crotch region 37 is that part of diaper 20 which, when diaper 20 is used, is generally positioned between the wearer's legs.

The frame 22 of the diaper 20 comprises the main body of the diaper 20. The frame 22 comprises an outer cover including a fluid-permeable topsheet 24 and / or a fluid-impermeable backsheet 26 and at least a portion of an absorbent core 28 inserted between the topsheet 24 and the backsheet 26. In unitary absorbent articles, the frame 22 comprises the main structure of the diaper 20 with other features added to form the composite structure of the diaper. Although topsheet 24, backsheet 26, and absorbent core 28 can be assembled into a number of well-known configurations, preferred diaper configurations are generally described in US Patent 3,860,003 entitled "Contractible Side Portions for Disposable Diaper. ”Granted to Kenneth B. Buell on January 14, 1975; US Pat. No. 5,151,092, Buell, issued September 9, 1992; and US Pat. No. 5,221,274 issued to Buell on June 22, 1993; and US-5,554,145 entitled "Absorbent Article With Multiple Zone Structural Elastic-Like Film Web Extensible Waist Feature" issued to Roe et al. on September 10, 1996; US 5,569,234 entitled "Disposable Pull-On Pant" issued to Buell et al. on October 29, 1996; US 5,580,411 entitled "Zero Scrap Method For Manufacturing Side Panels For Absorbent Articles" issued to Nease, et al. on December 3, 1996; and US-6,004,306 entitled "Absorbent Article With Multi-Directional Extensible Side Panels" issued to Robles et al. on December 21, 1999; the description of which is incorporated herein by reference.

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The topsheet 24 may be fully or partially elasticized or it may be reduced to provide a void space between the topsheet 24 and the absorbent core 28. Illustrative structures including elasticized or foreshortened topsheets have been described in more detail in US-4,892. .536 issued to DesMarais et al. on January 9, 1990 entitled "Absorbent Article Having Elastic Strands"; US 4,990,147, Freeland, issued February 5, 1991 entitled "Absorbent Article With Elastic Liner For Waste Material Isolation"; US 5,037,416 issued to Alien et al. on August 6, 1991 entitled "Disposable Absorbent Article Having Elastically Extensible Topsheet"; and US 5,269,775 issued to Freeland et al. on December 14, 1993 entitled "Trisection Topsheets For Disposable Absorbent Articles and Disposable Absorbent Articles Having Such Trisection Topsheets"; the descriptions of which are incorporated by reference herein. Further preferred embodiments of the elastified or foreshortened topsheets have been described in detail in co-pending European patent application No. 01117670 filed July 26, 2001 and in co-pending European patent application No. 01117669 filed on July 26, 2001. July 2001, the descriptions of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The absorbent core 28 can comprise any absorbent material that is generally compressible, compliant, non-irritating to the wearer's skin, and capable of absorbing and holding liquids such as urine and other body exudates. The absorbent core 28 can comprise a wide variety of liquid absorbent materials commonly used in disposable diapers and other absorbent articles such as ground wood pulp, generally referred to as air felt. Examples of other suitable absorbent materials include pleated cellulose wadding; melt blown polymers, including copolymers; chemically stiffened, modified or crosslinked cellulosic fibers; tissue paper, including tissue paper wrappers and tissue paper laminates; absorbent foams; absorbent sponges; superabsorbent polymers; absorbent gelling materials; or any other known absorbent material or combinations of materials.

The backsheet 26 is generally that portion of the diaper 20 positioned adjacent the garment-facing surface of the absorbent core 28. The backsheet 26 prevents exudates absorbed and contained therein from staining articles that may be in it. contact with diaper 20, such as sheets and undergarments. In preferred embodiments, the backsheet 26 is substantially impervious to liquids (e.g. g. urine) and comprises a laminate of a nonwoven material and a thin plastic film such as a thermoplastic film having a thickness of from about 0.012mm (0.5 mil) to about 0.051mm (2.0 mils). Suitable backsheet films include those manufactured by Tredegar Industries Inc. of Terre Haute, IN, marketed under the trademarks X15306, X10962, and X10964. Other suitable backsheet materials may include breathable materials that allow vapor to escape from the diaper 20 while preventing exudates from passing through the backsheet 26. Illustrative breathable materials can include materials such as woven webbing, nonwoven webbing, composite materials such as film-coated nonwoven webbing, and microporous films such as those manufactured by Mitsui Toatsu Co. from Japan under the name ESPOIR NO and by Tredegar from Richmond, VA, USA Suitable breathable composites comprising polymer blends are available from Clopay Corporation, Cincinnati, OH under the name HYTREL blend P18-3097.

The diaper 20 may include a fastening system 50 such as a hook and eye fastener that includes at least one latch component (male fastening component) and at least one placement zone (female fastening component). Alternatively, fastening system 50 may include a tongue and groove type fastener in which the tongue includes a retention element that engages an opening such as a groove, groove or eyelet.

The diaper 20 may also include side panels, referred to herein as first ear panels 30, disposed in the second waist region 38. The first lug panels 30 may be integrated with the frame 22 comprising extensions of a single body frame design or, alternatively, the first lug panels may comprise separate elements secured to the frame 22 by adhesives, ultrasonic bonding, radio frequency or other suitable means. The first ear panels 30 can be elastic or stretchable to allow a more snug and snug fit with the diaper 20 initially fitting comfortably to the wearer and maintaining this fit during the time of use and until later, once the diaper 20 has been worn. loaded with exudates, as the first elastic ear panels 30 allow the sides of the diaper 20 to extend and contract. The first ear panels 30 can also provide a more efficient application of the diaper 20 because, even if during application the caregiver pulls on one elastic first ear panel 30 more than the other, the diaper 20 "self-adjusts" during the application. use. Examples of diapers with elasticized first side panels are described in US Patent 4,857,067, entitled "Disposable Diaper Having Shirred Ears" issued to Wood et al. on August 15, 1989; US 4,381,781 issued to Sciaraffa, et al. on May 3, 1983; US 4,938,753 issued to Van Gompel, et al. on July 3, 1990; US Patent 5,151,092 already cited herein issued to Buell on September 9, 1992; and US Pat. No. 5,221,274 issued to Buell on June 22, 1993; US 5,669,897 issued to LaVon, et al. on September 23, 1997 entitled "Absorbent Articles Providing Sustained Dynamic Fit"; Patent application US08 / 155,048 entitled "Absorbent Article With Multi-Directional Extensible Side Panels" filed November 19, 1993 in the name of Robles, et al; the description of which is incorporated herein by reference herein.

Diaper 20 may also include side panels, referred to as second ear panels 40, disposed in the first waist region 36. Similar to the first lug panels 30, the second lug panels 40 may be integrated with the frame 22 comprising extensions of a single-body frame design or,

Alternatively, the second lug panels 40 may comprise separate elements attached to the frame 22 by adhesives, ultrasonic bonds, radio frequency bonds, or other suitable means. The first and second lug panels 30, 40 can be constructed in any suitable configuration that accommodates a particular product design.

An illustrative disposable absorbent article that includes signs useful to facilitate an easy and intuitive change in accordance with the present invention is the disposable diaper 20 shown in Figures 2a-2d. Disposable diaper 20 includes at least one externally visible useful marker 60 that can be observed at least along portions of the garment-facing surface of the article near the longitudinal side edges 14 in at least region 37 of the article. crotch and also at least one useful marker 60 externally visible along portions of the garment-facing surface of the article near the first and second end edges 10, 12 in the first and second regions 36, 38 of the waist, respectively. In each part, the visible useful markings are externally visible so that parts of the garment-facing surface of the article are distinguished close to the longitudinal side edges 14 and the first and second end edges 10, 12 of a part of the garment-facing surface of the article near the center of the article defined by the intersection of longitudinal and transverse axes 100, 110. The externally visible useful markings 60 may be disposed directly on the garment-facing surface of the backsheet 26, on the surface of the backsheet 26 versus the garment-facing surface adjacent to the core 28, at one of the components of the backsheet 26, or below the backsheet 26 in the underlying layers as long as the markings are externally visible. The externally visible useful markings 60 may comprise a separate element attached to a component of the article or may comprise a colorant, such as a dye or ink, applied to a component of the article. In addition, the externally visible utility indicia 60 may include a color, pattern, and / or texture that distinguishes the designated portions of the central portion of the article.

For externally visible useful signs comprising a design, the design may be in the form of a series of shapes and / or images. For example, the design can be formed from one or more points, one or more lines, one or more regular or irregular shapes (such as circles, ellipses, rhombuses, squares, and the like), or combinations thereof. Alternatively, a pattern can be in the form of a color variation along the length of the useful signals. For example, the color can vary from light to dark or from one shade to another. Pictures can include pictures of characters or objects that are easily recognizable to children.

For useful cues that comprise texture, the parts of the backsheet 26 can be mechanically treated to provide texture by methods known in the art, including mechanical operations such as folding, corrugating, or ring rolling to provide openable pleats. when the backsheet 26 extends in a direction generally orthogonal to the folds or folds. In addition to providing texture, these mechanical operations can also provide extensibility. Suitable processes for ring or pre-roll lamination, including stretch bands made from the foregoing, have been described in US Pat. No. 4,107,364 issued to Sisson on August 15, 1978; US 4,834,741, Sabee, issued May 30, 1989; US 5,167,897 issued to Weber et al. on December 1, 1992, and US Pat. No. 5,702,382 issued to Osborn, III et al. on December 30, 1997, each of which has been incorporated by reference herein.

Alternatively, useful signals comprising texture can be achieved by forming a stretchable network having at least two distinct and different contiguous regions. The films thus formed have been referred to in the past as structural elastic-like films ("SELF"). An elastic-like structural strip or film is a stretchable material that can exhibit elastic-like behavior in the direction of elongation without using added elastic materials. However, SELF belts can be created that exhibit little elastic behavior. In particular, webs can be created comprising a laminate of films and nonwovens that exhibit low elastic behavior beyond very low stress levels.

Useful signals comprising SELF suitable for the present invention, and methods of forming SELF bands suitable for use as backing sheets 26, are described in more detail in US Patent 5,518,801 entitled Web Materials Exhibiting Elastic-Like Behavior, issued to Chappell, et al. on May 21, 1996; US-5,650,214 entitled Web Materials Exhibiting Elastic-Like Behavior and Soft, Cloth-like Texture, issued to Anderson et al. on July 22, 1997; and US-5,904,673 entitled Absorbent Article with Structural Elastic-like Film Web Waist Belt, issued to Roe et al. on May 18, 1999, all of which have been incorporated by reference herein. For laminated film / nonwoven backsheets, the processes described in the above-mentioned patents can be performed on the laminated material or on the separate components prior to lamination, or both.

For the embodiment shown in Figure 2a, the first lug panels 30 disposed along each of the longitudinal side edges 14 in the second waist region 38 include a body-facing surface and a body-facing surface. toward the garment, a near edge 32 attached to the longitudinal side edge 14 and to the distal edge 34 opposite the proximal edge 32. At least a portion of each of the first lug panels 30 includes at least one externally visible utility marker 60 that complements the externally visible utility marker 60 of the garment-facing surface of the article near the first end edge 10, the second terminal edge

ES 2 397 785 T3 and / or close to the longitudinal side edges 14. Analogously to the externally visible useful indicia 60 on the garment-facing surface of the article, the at least one externally visible useful indicia 60 on the first ear panels 30 is also externally visible as described above.

Once the article has been fitted to the wearer, the externally visible useful mark 60 on the garment-facing surface of the first ear panels 30 and the externally visible useful mark 60 on the garment-facing portion of the surface The dressing of the article near the first terminal edge 10 facilitates, in addition to intensifying, the fastening system 50 by forming a substantially aligned composite sign that appears, in a non-limiting embodiment illustrated in Figures 2b-2d, as a band that surrounds the wearer's waist. Alternatively, the externally visible useful markings 60 form a partially overlapping or aligned composite marking when fitting the article to a wearer. At the same time, externally visible useful markings 60 disposed on the garment-facing surface portions of the article along the longitudinal side edges 14 surround the wearer's legs in a substantially overlapping and aligned manner, which forms a substantially aligned composite signal appearing, for example, as a continuous band around each leg of the wearer as illustrated in Figure 2c.

For this embodiment, the externally visible useful markings 60 can be made on the parts of the garment-facing surface of the article close to the longitudinal side edges 14 and the externally visible useful markings 60 close to the first and second terminal edges 10. , 12 form a contoured pattern that distinguishes the first waist region 36 from the second waist region 38. At the same time, the contoured design can be made to complement the wearer's anatomy. For example, the contoured design for the embodiment shown in Figure 3 is curvilinear, such that the design in the second waist region 38 and a portion of the crotch region 37 is concave relative to the intersection of the longitudinal and transverse axes 100, 110. Such a concave curvilinear design can be made to complement the wearer's buttocks. Alternatively or in addition to the pattern in the second waist region 38, the pattern in the first waist region 36 and a portion of the crotch region 37 may be convex relative to the intersection of axes 100, 110 longitudinal and transverse, as shown in Figure 2a. Such a convex design, especially the design near the first terminal edge 10, can complement the shape of the wearer's abdomen.

In addition to accommodating the fastening system 50 and especially the fit of the diaper 20, the contoured design formed by the externally visible useful indicia 60 can be included to perform other functions of the disposable absorbent article such as the absorbent core, the back fold for the legs of assembling effect or turned fold for barrier legs. For example, absorbent core 28 may have an hourglass-shaped design having a narrow portion in crotch region 37 to improve overall fit of diaper 20. Additionally, core 28 may comprise one or more ends. rounded or otherwise. As shown in Figure 4, the contoured shape formed by one or more externally visible useful landmarks 60 can complement or enhance the existing core shape or an idealized core shape (e.g., as an idealized core shape that has rounded ends in a diaper having a core with rectangular ends as illustrated in Figure 4), making it more attractive to the consumer. In addition, the contoured design matching the shape of the core can provide a visual cue indicating the correct alignment of the diaper 20 with respect to the wearer's lower torso, i.e., in the lateral direction, improving the fit of the diaper 20 in region 37. of the wearer's crotch, thereby enhancing the overall function of the diaper 20. On the other hand, the contoured design provided on the garment-facing surface of the article can be aligned with the barrier folds or turned-up seal leg folds disposed on the body-facing surface of the disposable absorbent article, accentuating the ability to items to prevent leakage. In some of these embodiments, only the externally visible useful markings 60 close to the longitudinal side edges 14 and / or close to one of the terminal edges 10, 12, e.g. For example, the second end edge 12 near the second waist region 38 may be necessary to enhance the absorbent core 28 and facilitate lateral alignment of the article with respect to the wearer's anatomy.

In some embodiments, the externally visible useful signals 60 may be sufficiently opaque, or dark enough in color, to further provide a masking advantage, effectively avoiding visual detection of an underlying layer, material, or substance. useful signals. For example, the externally visible useful indicia 60 near the longitudinal side edges 14 of a diaper 20 may have such an opacity that feces and / or portions of the absorbent core 28 may be present under the region of the nearby backsheet 26. the longitudinal side edges 14 of the diaper 20 are not visible from outside the diaper 20.

In certain preferred embodiments, the disposable absorbent article may include helpful instructive markings 70 that provide the caregiver with guidance or instructions regarding the tightness of the article's fit around the wearer. In particular, the instructional helpful signs 70 may instruct the caregiver whether to adjust the fit or to change to a different size diaper with which a proper fit can be obtained. For example, instructional tool marks 70 may be disposed on the garment-facing surface of the article by matching instructional tool marks 70 on the garment-facing surface of the first ear panels 30 to provide a indication that the first ear panels 30 do not sufficiently overlap the first waist region 36 indicating a loose fit, or they overlap the first waist region 36 too far indicating an uncomfortable and tight fit. In particular, too small an overlap can

ES 2 397 785 T3 will result in a leg fit that is too loose while an overlap that is too large can result in a leg fit that is too tight. Preferably the instructive helpful markings 70 are disposed near the longitudinal side edges 14 of the article during at least a portion of the longitudinal side edge 14 and near the inner edge 35 of the first lug panel 30 during at least a portion of the inner edge 35 as shown. shown in Figure 5. Instructional signs 70 that provide guidance or instructions to the caregiver regarding the tightness of the fit may include graphic character dots, numbers, line segments, and / or designs.

The disposable absorbent article of the invention may comprise a body-facing surface including portions thereof having at least one internally visible useful marking 80. The internally visible useful sign 80 can facilitate easy intuitive changeover by providing a guide to align the wearer with the article during adjustment, such that the wearer is in turn correctly positioned on the article for fixation, requiring minimal adjustment.

The absorbent article has internally visible useful markings 80 that may be disposed near the longitudinal side edges 14 and near the first and second end edges 10, 12 of the article to provide a contoured pattern that distinguishes the first waist region 36 from the second region. 38 from the back waist. The contoured design can be made to complement the wearer's anatomy by directing the caregiver where to position the wearer during adjustment. For example, internally visible helpful markings 80 may form a curvilinear pattern such that the pattern of the second waist region 38 is concave with respect to longitudinal and transverse axes 100, 110 to match the contours of the buttocks of the body. carrier. The design of the first waist region 36 can also be curvilinear with respect to the longitudinal and transverse axes 100, 110, or even linear, but in any case, it can have a contour that matches the sides of the wearer's lumbar region. . As a result, the contoured design can be produced to provide a marking of a region of the buttock and lumbar region on the body-facing surface of the article that indicates to the caregiver where to position the wearer during fitting.

In some non-limiting embodiments, internally visible useful markings 80 may be disposed on the body-facing surface of the article to facilitate positioning or alignment of the article, or a component thereof, with respect to lateral axis 110 and / or longitudinal axis 100 of the article. item with an anatomical feature of the wearer. For example, the topsheet 24 of the article may comprise an internally visible useful marker 80, such as a mark in the crotch region 37, which, when aligned with the anus for example, results in improved fit and function. of confinement of the waste of the article. In one embodiment shown in Figure 6, internally visible useful marker 80 is visible on the body-facing side of diaper 20 identifying the crotch area to aid longitudinal positioning. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the internally visible useful sign 80 may be colored and includes a three-dimensional outline to facilitate alignment of the article with the wearer during fitting as shown in Figure 8.

Similar to embodiments that include externally visible useful indicia 60, internally visible useful indicia 80 may include a color, pattern, and / or texture that distinguishes designated portions of the body-facing surface of the article from other regions of the body. body-facing surface not comprising internally visible useful markings 80. Internally visible useful markings 80 may be associated with any part or component of the article visible on or through the surface that contacts the body of the article, including topsheet 24, absorbent core 28, or parts thereof, the fastening system 50, the topsheet 24, and the backsheet 26.

As described above for externally visible useful markings 60, internally visible useful markings 80 may be disposed on the body-facing surface of topsheet 24 or below topsheet 24 as long as it is visible from the body-facing surface. In addition, the internally visible useful signs 80 may have different colors, color patterns, gradient patterns, or textures used to impart smoothness of the article towards the body and also provide some sufficient opacity to mask any underlying material or layer, thereby avoiding the visual discernment of the layer, material or substance through useful signals.

In some preferred embodiments comprising an elastically foreshortened topsheet 24 with a hole or slot 90 adapted to accommodate feces passing to the bottom of the topsheet 24, such as previously described in co-pending patent application No. 01117670. on July 26, 2001 and in co-pending European patent application No. 01117669 filed on July 26, 2001, Internally visible helpful markings 80 located on the body facing surface of the article may facilitate alignment of the hole or groove 90 with the anus and / or intergluteal groove. In these embodiments, the internally visible useful markings 80 may comprise colored regions on the body-facing surface of the article along the longitudinal and / or lateral edges of the hole or slot 90.

In one embodiment shown in Figure 9, the diaper 20 includes a foreshortened elastic topsheet 24 provided with a hole 90 adapted to receive feces passing to the bottom of the topsheet 24. In this particular embodiment, signal 80 Internally visible tool highlights the front region of the item with a smooth curved transition

ES 2 397 785 T3 towards the back for better positioning of the article in the longitudinal direction. In addition, the curvature of the colored markings on the back provides improved transverse positioning of the hole 90 with respect to the anus. The embodiment shown in Figure 10 is similar to the embodiment of Figure 9 in that internally visible helpful markings 80 identify the crotch region of the article and also assist in positioning the hole 90 in the topsheet 24 relative to the anus.

Other diaper embodiments that include internally visible markings 80 useful for aligning the hole or slot 90 in an elasticized topsheet 24 with the wearer's anus are shown in Figures 11-18. For the embodiment shown in Figure 11, a diaper 20 comprising a foreshortened elastic topsheet 24 includes internally visible useful indicia 80 that identify the crotch region of diaper 20 and also the position of hole 90 of topsheet 24 with with respect to the anus.

Figure 12 shows an alternate embodiment of useful indicia 80 visible internally on the body-facing side of an article having an elastically foreshortened topsheet 24 that identifies the front waist region of diaper 20 and highlights a urination target area 95 in the same that is especially applicable to male carriers. Figure 13 shows an embodiment similar to the embodiment of Figure 12, with a color gradient and patterns to create a smooth transition between the front and back of the article. A further embodiment is shown in Figure 14, in which the internally visible useful mark 80 of the body-facing face of the article highlights the area of ​​the groove 90 while the internally visible useful mark 80 of the front region of the area of ​​the The waist highlights the urination target area 95, the combination of which facilitates the alignment of the article in relation to the wearer's anus and genitalia at the time of donning.

The embodiment shown in Figure 15 provides two internally visible useful markings 80, an external marking identifying the crotch region 37 and assisting in longitudinal positioning of the article, and an inner marking identifying the position of the slot or hole 90 of the upper sheet 24 in elastic foreshortening and helping to position the groove or hole 90 with respect to the anus. In the embodiment shown in Figure 16, internally visible helpful markings 80 indicate the front and rear areas of the waist and also highlight the area between the anus relative to the elasticized groove area.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, the internally visible face-facing useful indicia 80 of a foreshortened elastically topsheet 24 comprises curved colored elastics to emphasize the elasticity and placement of the hole 90 with respect to the anus. In addition, the strip design under the topsheet 24 highlights the stool passage area.

Figure 18 shows an alternate embodiment of a combination of internally visible helpful markings 80 that highlight the crotch region to allow for better longitudinal placement of diaper 20, indicating placement of urination target area 95 in the front waist region. and highlighting the slot or hole 90 located in the foreshortened elastic topsheet 24 that provides alignment with respect to the anus. The internally visible useful markings 80 highlighting the slot or hole 90 may also provide masking of the feces discharged by the wearer once they have passed through the hole 90.

In addition to internally visible useful indicia 80, the diaper 20 may include a pair of leg cuffs for protective leg cuffs and a pair of elastically contractible leg seal cuffs. Each of the sealing leg turned folds is disposed outside of a barrier leg turned fold, adjacent to the longitudinal side edge. The turned-up folds for the barrier legs and the turned-up folds for the sealing legs may be tinted with a color that complements the design or color of the internally visible tool markings 80 on the topsheet 24 that provide additional guidance for aligning the article. with the lower part of the wearer's torso.

In addition, each of the sealing leg cuffs may comprise one or more elastic bands covered by a portion of the longitudinal edge of the backsheet 26 that is folded over one or more elastic strips to form a leg cuff. finished sealer. For this embodiment, the garment-facing surface of the article may include useful markings that make up a pattern as described above such that once the longitudinal face of the backsheet 26 is folded over the elastic strips that make up the finished folds, the finished rolled leg folds may include useful markings from the body facing surface of the diaper 20.

In addition to the functions described above, the disposable absorbent article according to the present invention may include a fastening system 50 designed to facilitate easy and intuitive changing. An example of an embodiment including this fastening system 50 is shown in Figure 19. For this embodiment, the fastening system 50 removably connects the first waist region 36 to the second waist region 38 and provides a first fit and a second fit. The first adjustment provides a loose fit that allows the article to be manipulated around the wearer's lower torso during adjustment and the second adjustment provides a secure fit around the wearer's waist. For example, during the first fit, the diaper 20 may be loosely fitted around the wearer's ankles while standing and then pulling the diaper up around the wearer's waist and securely fastening by the second adjustment. The fastening system 50 includes elements 52, 54 of

ES 2 397 785 T3 primary and secondary placement corresponding to the first adjustment and the second adjustment. In addition to the instructive tool signs 70 described above to provide guidance or instructions to the caregiver regarding tightness of the fit, the primary and secondary positioning elements 52, 54 may include an instructional tool sign 70 that provides instructions to the caregiver for the first fit. and to the second setting.

For this embodiment, the fastening system 50 may include a hook and eye type fastener that includes at least one latch component (male fastening component) and at least two placement zones (female fastening components). In this case, the two placement zones provide the primary and secondary placement elements 52, 54. Alternatively, the fastener may include a tongue and groove type fastener in which the tongue element includes a retention element that engages an opening such as a groove, slit, or loop as described in commonly assigned US patent. -6,251,097 issued to Kline, et al. Incorporated by reference herein For this embodiment, the tongue and groove type fastener comprises at least two slot, slit or loop-like openings that provide primary and secondary positioning elements 52, 54. For the tongue and groove type fasteners, the primary and secondary positioning elements 52, 54 are separated by a distance. For hook and eye type fasteners, primary and secondary positioning elements 52, 54 may be spaced apart or contiguous.

Instructional tool signs 70 disposed on the positioning elements include instructions designating the mating connections between the tab elements and the primary and secondary positioning elements 52, 54. The instructions may include graphics or characters illustrating the orientation and / or configuration of the diaper 20 during the first fit and the second fit. For example, a graphic may illustrate a diaper with a loose fit snug around the wearer's waist during the first fit and a diaper with a tight fit securely fastened around the wearer's waist during the second fit.

Instructional tool signs 70 provided on the first and second donning elements can be especially useful when the diaper includes the versatility to conform to the wearer while the wearer is standing or lying down. For this embodiment, the first adjustment may comprise adjusting the diaper to the wearer while the wearer is standing in which case the diaper fits around the wearer's ankles by attaching the tabs to the first donning elements and is then pulled. up around the wearer's lower torso. Once the diaper is positioned around the lower torso, the diaper can be adjusted to achieve the second fit by removing the tabs from the first donning elements and engaging them with the second donning elements. For this embodiment, the graphic on the first donning element may include a character wearing a diaper around the ankles while the graphic on the second donning element includes a character wearing a diaper fastened around the waist.

In addition to the graphics, the instructional helpful cues 70 may also comprise words such as "ankles" and "waist" associated with the position of the article during the first fit and second fit or may designate the type of fit as "loose" and "tight." ”. In addition, instructional markings may comprise numbers such as one "1" and two "2" that designate the first and second settings, respectively.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 19, the fastening system 50 includes two tab elements 56. Each tab element 56 has a proximal tab edge 57 disposed at the distal edge 34 of each of the first lug panels 30, a distal tab edge 58, a body-facing tab surface, and a body-facing tab surface. the dress for use. Each tab element 56 includes fasteners disposed close to the distal edge 58 of the tab. The second lug panels 40 are disposed along each first longitudinal side edge 14 of the first waist region 36. Each second lug panel has a body-facing surface and a garment-facing surface, a proximal edge 42 attached to the longitudinal side edge 14, and a distal edge 44 opposite the proximal edge 42. A primary positioning element 52 is provided on the garment-facing surface of each of the second front ear panels 40. A secondary positioning element 54 is provided on the garment-facing surface of the article in the first region 36 of the waist. During attachment the main positioning element 52 provides a first attachment point in which a first fit is achieved once the tab element 56 is engaged. The first fit provides a loose fit around the wearer that allows the diaper to be manipulated for effective orientation while wearing. Second positioning element 54 provides a second attachment point for a second fit where the article is securely attached around the wearer's waist. For this embodiment, useful instructive signs comprise graphics. The graphic on the main donning element 52 includes a character wearing a diaper around the ankles while the graphic on the second donning element 54 includes an individual wearing a diaper fastened around the waist.

Although various embodiments and / or special features of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be obvious to the person skilled in the art that other changes and modifications can be made without thereby abandoning the spirit and field of application of the invention. Furthermore, it should be apparent that any combination of these embodiments and features can be made to obtain preferred embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are intended to cover all such changes and modifications contemplated within the scope of the present invention.